High Rock School - Instructional Assistant Special Education (1 yr.) - SY 26/27

Needham Public Schools•Needham, MA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Needham Public Schools is an inclusive, dynamic, and multicultural community seeking an energetic, skilled, and warm Instructional assistant (1yr.) to join our team. To enhance our goals of supporting every child, Needham Public Schools seeks candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Under the direct supervision of the Special Education Teacher, Classroom Teacher, and Special Education Coordinator/Director, the Instructional Assistant will work closely with students in the classroom to meet instructional and social-emotional goals and objectives and to maintain appropriate student behavior. Depending on the grade level and needs of students, Instructional Assistants may be responsible for assisting students with special education needs in all aspects of classroom instruction to maximize inclusion, learning, and achievement of IEP objectives, working 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, supporting students using strategies such as positive reinforcement, visual supports, queuing, de-escalation strategies, motor breaks, as well as data collection, assisting with the preparation of instructional materials and the learning environment, assisting with classroom behavior management to minimize disruptions, ensure a safe and orderly classroom, and ensure students are on task, assisting students in non-instructional areas, such as supervising lunch, recess, arrival or dismissal duty, and assisting with student self-care, which may include hand-washing, toileting, mealtime and dressing routines. Any additional tasks assigned by the Special Education Coordinator/Director, Principal, or Assistant Principal.

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
Works 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
Assist with student self-care, which may include hand-washing, toileting, mealtime and dressing routines
Any additional tasks assigned by the Special Education Coordinator/Director, Principal, or Assistant Principal