Preschool Intensive Special Education Instructional Assistants (4) (SY 2026-2027)

Needham Public Schools•Needham, MA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Needham Public Schools is an inclusive, dynamic, and multicultural community seeking an energetic and skilled Intensive Special Education Instructional Assistant 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, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and Special Education Coordinator/Director, the Intensive Special Education Instructinoal Assistant provides specialized instruction and support for students with complex learning profiles and/or behavioral challenges enrolled in the Intensive Learning Center/Post Graduate Program, utilizing the strategies of applied behavior analysis.

Requirements

Ability to carry out verbal and written instructions
Knowledge of academic and social skills unique to the developmental age of the students
Knowledge of complex learning profiles and common behavioral challenges
Ability to make decisions in the moment to ensure the safety of all students, including performing physical restraint when necessary
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
Bachelor’s degree in related field or at least 2 years experience in a similar role (i.e. ABA, job coaching, etc)
Demonstrate aptitude for work to be performed
Passion for working with children/students with complex disabilities
Basic knowledge of child growth and development
Must be/willing to be Safety Care trained

Responsibilities

Provide 1:1 or small group specialized instruction for students with significant special needs utilizing the strategies of applied behavior analysis which may take place in an inclusion setting
Implement student specific behavior intervention plans including positive reinforcement, visual supports, cuing, de-escalation strategies, and/or providing motor breaks
Prevent, minimize, and manage behavioral challenges following district protocols
Support students’ integration within a classroom setting through academic, social, and behavioral interventions
Implement augmentative communication and assistive technology instruction and support for students who are non-speaking or have limited communication skills
Provide life skill instruction including toileting, self-care, and travel training as appropriate
Provide pre-vocational training and job coaching for students in school and the larger community as appropriate
Assist with program specific data collection to monitor student progress and develop necessary support plans (e.g. academics, social skills, and behavior plans)
Support students to navigate the school day including non-instructional time
Prepare instructional materials for students based on their individual learning needs and goals
Assist with home/school communications (e.g. daily log) as assigned
Provide regular feedback to the special education team members on student progress
Any additional tasks assigned by the Special Education Coordinator/Director, Principal or Assistant Principal