Instructional Aide

ChanceLight Programs•Lakewood, CA

18h

About The Position

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is seeking an Instructional Aide to support students in Grades K–12 in a special education program. The role provides personalized support, supervision, and guidance in classrooms and community settings, working closely with classroom educators to help implement each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). The aide helps students develop academic, behavioral, social, vocational, and daily living skills in a supportive, student-centered environment.

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.
Comfort driving and/or riding in a company van with students before and/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 working with children with autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, and/or related disabilities.
Ability to motivate students and have critical conversations that help them move toward realistic goals.
Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in emergencies and make independent decisions.
Advanced 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 California state paraprofessional or related credential, or in the process of obtaining one.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with classroom teachers to foster a supportive, welcoming, and high-achieving learning environment where students feel safe and valued.
Implement individualized instruction and behavioral interventions on-site and in community settings, aligned with each student’s goals and objectives.
Instruct and monitor students during classroom lessons, maintain instructional fidelity, and use strategies to improve comprehension and course completion.
Track student progress against established timelines and communicate successes and areas requiring intervention to classroom teachers.
Manage student behavior, reinforce school policies, and apply consistent disciplinary measures in collaboration with classroom teachers.
Support and mentor students facing academic challenges and help develop community, vocational, leisure, domestic, academic, and social skills.
Document student behaviors and performance accurately and promptly, report observations, and provide recommendations to relevant staff.
Assist with behavioral reports, daily activity logs, and other documentation.
Communicate with students, colleagues, supervisors, and families about student needs, achievements, and concerns, in partnership with teachers and administration.
Maintain 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 pursue continuous professional growth.
Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support student success and the educational community.