Instructional Aide

ChanceLight Programs•Orange, CA

About The Position

Spectrum Centers and Programs is seeking an Instructional Aide to support elementary school students in a special education program. The role provides personalized support, supervision, and guidance in classroom and community settings. Working closely with classroom educators, the Instructional Aide helps implement each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), tailoring instruction and support to individual learning needs and helping students build skills and confidence. The position is part of ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education, which provides instructional and behavioral services through specialized program centers in partnership with school districts. The organization describes its work as helping children and young adults develop successful, independent futures in a safe and trusting 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.
Be comfortable 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; preferably in an alternative, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting.
Skills working with children with autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, and/or other 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 an emergency 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 of study.
Currently licensed or in the process of obtaining a California state paraprofessional or related credential.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with classroom teachers to create 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 targeted strategies to support comprehension and course completion.
Track student progress against established timelines and communicate successes and needs for intervention to classroom teachers.
Manage student behavior, reinforce school policies and philosophy, and apply consistent disciplinary measures in collaboration with classroom teachers.
Support and mentor students facing academic challenges and help them develop community, vocational, leisure, domestic, academic, and social skills.
Document student behaviors 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 confidentiality of student records and information.
Participate in assurance and accreditation activities and contribute to site performance standards and accreditation requirements.
Attend school-wide, student-parent, and advisory meetings.
Respond constructively to formal and informal feedback and pursue ongoing professional growth.
Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support student success and the educational community.