Special Education Teacher Aide | Academic Support Staff
About The Position
Academic Support Staff Youth In Transition (YIT) School Immediate Openings Be the Difference a Student Remembers Forever Some students don’t just need instruction—they need consistency, patience, and someone who believes in them. At the Youth In Transition (YIT) School, Academic Support Staff are more than classroom aides. They are trusted adults, role models, and steady anchors in students’ lives. If you’re motivated by meaningful relationships, thrive in hands‑on environments, and want to do work that genuinely matters, this role offers the chance to change lives—every single day. Why This Role Matters Many YIT students arrive at school needing structure, support, and safety before learning can even begin. As an Academic Support Staff member, your presence sets the tone for their entire day. You help students feel seen, capable, and supported—often becoming the person they trust most in the building. This isn’t a behind‑the‑scenes role. This is impact in real time. What You’ll Do You’ll work side‑by‑side with teachers and students to bring learning to life while maintaining a safe, positive classroom environment. Support students one‑on‑one and in small groups during lessons Reinforce positive behavior using approved, trauma‑informed strategies Help students navigate transitions, challenges, and emotional moments Provide structure, supervision, and encouragement throughout the school day Collect academic and behavioral data to support student progress Participate in team debriefs to reflect, problem‑solve, and improve outcomes Step in with calm confidence when students need de‑escalation or redirection Focused Student Support Opportunities Some team members are assigned to provide consistent support to one student throughout the day. In this role, you may: Be the student’s first positive connection each morning Provide close academic support during class time Escort the student safely throughout the building Track behaviors and help implement individualized behavior plans Identify triggers and use proactive de‑escalation strategies Ensure the student ends each day safely and successfully Consistency builds trust—and trust changes everything. QualificationsWho Thrives in This Role This position is ideal for individuals who are: Patient, calm, and emotionally grounded Comfortable setting firm but compassionate boundaries Motivated by student progress—not perfection Able to stay composed in fast‑moving or challenging moments Passionate about equity, access, and youth development
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree preferred (relevant experience may substitute)
- At least 2 years of experience working with students with special needs
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Ability to follow safety procedures and behavior plans
- Basic math and data interpretation skills
- Strong judgment and ability to follow instructions
- Maintain strict confidentiality and ethical conduct
- Demonstrate professionalism in behavior, language, and appearance
- Be reliable, punctual, and committed to the team
- Help create a classroom environment where students feel safe and respected
- Frequent walking, standing, and stair use
- Occasional lifting (15–20 lbs)
- Ability to move quickly and perform approved TCI physical interventions
- Indoor classroom environment with moderate noise
Responsibilities
- Support students one‑on‑one and in small groups during lessons
- Reinforce positive behavior using approved, trauma‑informed strategies
- Help students navigate transitions, challenges, and emotional moments
- Provide structure, supervision, and encouragement throughout the school day
- Collect academic and behavioral data to support student progress
- Participate in team debriefs to reflect, problem‑solve, and improve outcomes
- Step in with calm confidence when students need de‑escalation or redirection
- Be the student’s first positive connection each morning
- Provide close academic support during class time
- Escort the student safely throughout the building
- Track behaviors and help implement individualized behavior plans
- Identify triggers and use proactive de‑escalation strategies
- Ensure the student ends each day safely and successfully
Benefits
- Health, dental & vision insurance
- Health Savings Account with employer contributions
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
- Generous time off, paid holidays, and winter break
- Tuition assistance & professional development support
- Free parking & a supportive school culture
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
