Instructional Aide, (7hours)

Cambridge Public Schools•Cambridge, MA

About The Position

Instructional Aide, (7hours) Haggerty School/Office of Student Services Haggerty School Community: Our school motto, “Everyone is Different, Everyone Belongs” is the foundation of our commitment to diversity and inclusion. We believe that all students can achieve at high levels and that, in order to do so, students and families from historically marginalized groups may need more. The Haggerty Staff is actively engaged in racial equity work, including conversations about the impact of racism, implicit bias, the dominant culture, and white privilege on our individual and collective work. We are a “work in progress” as we look to make change, and we are seeking candidates who will join us willingly in this crucial endeavor for the success of all students. At Haggerty, we believe that learning unfolds when we provide conditions in which children can explore, inquire, and shape their own understandings. The school values the culture and beliefs that each child brings to the classroom, and teachers believe that children must engage with their world in order to make sense of it and build their knowledge. Each student is expected to take responsibility for his/her own learning while collaborating, supporting, and respecting others. We are committed to relationships and rapport being foundational to the conditions needed for successful collegiality, caregiver participation, and student success. The Office of Student Services: The Office of Student Services (OSS) is responsible for providing a variety of supports and services to students in Cambridge Public Schools (CPS). Our programs are dedicated to ensuring equitable access and success for students with disabilities and students who have advanced learning needs. The Opportunity: The instructional aide paraprofessional reports to and is supervised by the special educator. They are primarily responsible for assisting in the implementation of each student’s Individualized Educational Plan (IEP).

Requirements

Above average skills in collaboration
Excellent skills in oral communication
Demonstrated ability to problem solve
Experience working with students in urban environments
Must be energetic, enthusiastic, patient, and flexible
Associates degree or 48 college credits from an accredited college or university preferred

Nice To Haves

Previous Montessori training or experience preferred

Responsibilities

Assist with instruction for students with disabilities
Supervise students with disabilities during non-instructional activities
Supervise students during transitions
Collaborate with general education, special education, and related services staff
Accommodate and modify for student learning and support the general education teacher with the implementation of appropriate accommodations in the general education setting
Perform related duties as may be designated by the special educator or supervisor
Toileting of students is a duty that an individual may be expected and required to perform as a paraprofessional employed by the Cambridge Public Schools
Assist in addressing the physical, educational, and social-emotional needs of the students
Willingness to be trained in de-escalation and safe physical restraint techniques
Must have the physical ability to work on the floor and move around the room to support students and teachers in curriculum implementation, use of manipulatives, and other instructional methods and materials