High Rock School Instructional Assistant Special Education - SY 26/27

Needham Public Schools•Needham, MA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

Needham Public Schools is seeking an energetic, skilled, and warm instructional assistant to join our team. This role supports students in the classroom to meet instructional and social-emotional goals and objectives, and to maintain appropriate student behavior. The assistant will work closely with students individually and in small groups to reinforce academic skills and implement lessons, potentially using augmentative technology. Strategies such as positive reinforcement, visual supports, queuing, de-escalation, motor breaks, and data collection will be utilized. The position also involves assisting with the preparation of instructional materials, the learning environment, and classroom behavior management to ensure a safe and orderly setting. Additionally, the assistant will supervise students during non-instructional times like lunch, recess, arrival, and dismissal. This role operates under the direct supervision of the Special Education Teacher, Classroom Teacher, and Special Education Coordinator/Director.

Requirements

Ability to carry out verbal and written instructions.
Knowledge of academic and social skills unique to the developmental age of the students.
Ability to make decisions in the moment to ensure the safety of all students.
Ability to establish a supportive and compassionate relationship with students with special needs.
Ability to work collaboratively with multiple team members.
Ability to maintain confidential information regarding students and families.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in a related field or at least 2 years experience in a similar role.
Passion for working with children/students with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Assist students with special education needs in all aspects of classroom instruction to maximize inclusion, learning, and achievement of IEP objectives.
Work with students individually and in small groups to reinforce basic academic skills and implement assigned lessons and programs, which may include the use of augmentative technology.
Support students using strategies such as positive reinforcement, visual supports, queuing, de-escalation strategies, motor breaks, as well as data collection.
Assist with the preparation of instructional materials and the learning environment.
Assist with classroom behavior management to minimize disruptions, ensure a safe and orderly classroom, and ensure students are on task.
Assist students in non-instructional areas, such as supervising lunch, recess, arrival or dismissal duty.
Perform any additional tasks assigned by the Special Education Coordinator/Director, Principal, or Assistant Principal.