Instructional Aide

ChanceLight Programs•Lakewood, CA

About The Position

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is seeking an Instructional Aide for its Special Education Program serving students in Grades K–12. The role provides students with personalized support, supervision, and guidance in classrooms and community settings. Working closely with classroom educators, the aide helps implement students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), adapts instruction to individual needs, and supports students in developing skills and confidence. The position is part of ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education, which provides instructional and behavioral services in specialized programs.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and passage of a basic skills test.
Currently hold or be able to obtain a valid California state driver's license.
Be comfortable driving and/or riding in a company van with students before or after school.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
Prior experience providing instruction, guidance, and/or support to children; experience in alternative education, special education, or behavioral health settings is preferred.
Skill in working with children with autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, and/or related disabilities.
Ability to motivate students and have critical conversations that help them work toward realistic goals.
Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in emergencies and make independent decisions.
Strong oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Knowledge of relevant technology, including instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or higher in education or a related field.
Current or in-progress California state paraprofessional or related credential.
Prior experience in an alternative, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with classroom teachers to create a supportive, welcoming, and high-achieving learning environment where students feel safe and valued.
Provide individualized instruction and behavioral interventions on-site and in community settings, aligned with student goals and objectives.
Instruct and monitor students during lessons, maintain instructional fidelity, and use strategies that support comprehension and course completion.
Track student progress against established timelines and communicate successes and intervention needs to classroom teachers.
Manage student behavior, reinforce school policies, and apply consistent disciplinary measures in collaboration with teachers.
Mentor and support students facing academic challenges and help them develop community, vocational, leisure, domestic, academic, and social skills.
Document student behavior and performance accurately and promptly, report observations, and provide actionable recommendations to relevant staff.
Assist with behavioral reports, daily activity logs, and other required documentation.
Communicate with students, colleagues, supervisors, and families about student needs, achievements, and concerns, in partnership with teachers and administration.
Maintain strict confidentiality of student records and information.
Participate in assurance and accreditation activities and contribute to site performance and accreditation requirements.
Attend school-wide, student-parent, and advisory meetings.
Respond constructively to formal and informal feedback and demonstrate ongoing professional growth.
Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support students and the educational community.