TK/Kinder Instructional Assistant II - American River

California Montessori Project • Fair Oaks, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

An Instructional Assistant II (IAII) reports to the Principal and is responsible for assisting in the classroom with all students, including special education and TKK students as needed. IAs work in collaboration with teachers and other school professionals and are crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment wherever assigned. An Instructional Assistant II will work closely with a wide range of ages and ability levels, supporting students in their academic and personal growth while working under the supervision of the site’s special education teacher. An Instructional Assistant II works with Sped and TKK students.

Requirements

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and other professionals.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students with diverse abilities.
• Ability to follow and implement instructions from teachers and specialists accurately.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in working with sensitive information.
• Associates Degree, 48 college educational units, or the ability to pass a paraprofessional exam

Nice To Haves

• Special Education, or related field
• Montessori experience

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the creation and maintenance of a safe and nurturing learning environment that promotes emotional well-being and academic growth.
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment by promoting respect, understanding, and cooperation among all students, directing children in a positive and respectful environment.
• Monitor and observe the daily operation of classrooms for safety, positive interaction and productive educational activity.
• Participate in meetings with teachers and other school professionals to discuss student progress, goals, and strategies, as necessary.
• Assist in the preparation and organization of classroom materials, resources, and activities.
• Model appropriate social interactions with students and peers.
• Complete required reports related to accidents and injuries in accordance with school policies.
• Coordinate with teachers for homework club, tutoring, student educational needs and extra curricular activities as necessary.
• Notify Teacher and/or Administration of unusual circumstances to include infectious disease, injury, illness and accident.
• Adhere to state and government regulations appropriate to school operational procedures.
• Clean and sanitize all manipulative materials and apparatuses often (weekly).
• Maintain a neat and orderly classroom to include dusting, mopping and vacuuming as necessary.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Support students during instructional activities, ensuring they are engaged, on task, and comprehending the material being presented.
• Under the guidance of the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher, may assist in modifying assignments and assessments, as needed, to accommodate individual student requirements.
• Assist the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and adapting curriculum materials to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Help manage classroom behavior by implementing strategies outlined in behavior intervention plans (BIPs), use Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to help teach and reinforce desired behaviors, and effectively de-escalate tense situations.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance, behavior, and achievements, and contribute to progress reporting. Data collection will be supervised by case manager and/or CMP BCBA.
• Support students during assigned disciplinary measures, which may include in-house suspension and social isolation. Attentive supervision will contribute to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment for all students involved.
• Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and other exceptionalities under the supervision of the teacher.
• If assigned as a 1:1 instructional aide, provide support to a specific student, helping the student succeed in the classroom and ensuring access to the curriculum alongside their peers. Provide assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care, mobility, and transitioning between activities.
• Complete the required toileting training and provide toileting support according to the guidelines for students as necessary.
• Coordinate with other IAs throughout the day to support the needs of multiple students when necessary.
• Attend relevant professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and stay up to date with best practices in special education.
• May be required to independently supervise small or large groups of students for brief periods (e.g., during lunch, recess, or transitions) without direct support from another adult.

Benefits

• Sick leave
• paid holidays
• vacation (as applicable by position)
• 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2 according to California state law, California Education code and CMP policy.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Full Time Positions
• Access to free before and after care through Club M for employees with students enrolled at a CMP campus (subject to availability; application fees apply).
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Options for health care and dependent care.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal or work-related challenges.
• Mental Health Support: Access to Nivati, a mental health platform offering counseling, coaching, and wellness tools.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree