Special Education Teaching Assistant - Upper School

Great Hearts Academies • San Antonio, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Teaching Assistant is a non-certified assistant to the academy’s Special Education Program, supporting students in general education and special education resource classrooms. The assistant works with students in all campus settings under the direction of and in collaboration with certified Special Education and General Education teachers. Additional duties may depend on the candidate’s experience and expertise and the academy’s needs.

The role supports students academically, behaviorally, and during transitions and other activities. It may include assisting with personal hygiene, mobility, and adaptive equipment, as well as providing clerical support to the ESS Team. The assistant also attends meetings and training, helps maintain an organized work area, and contributes to a supportive and positive learning environment. Local travel may be needed for training and professional development.

Requirements

• High school degree or higher.
• Experience in special education.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• U.S. work authorization is required.
• Successful completion of a criminal history background check and fingerprint clearance in accordance with state requirements.
• Ability to perform physical functions including standing, sitting, repetitive hand and body movements, bending, squatting, and reaching.
• May be required to move or position equipment weighing up to approximately 15 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s degree or higher is preferred.
• Educational Aide certification I, II, or III is preferred.
• Interest in reading great books.

Responsibilities

• Support students in small groups or one-on-one.
• Assist students with assignments, homework, and projects.
• Adapt materials and provide modifications to help students learn material.
• Help students understand classroom rules and reinforce those rules.
• Monitor student behavior to promote safety and appropriate interactions.
• Implement behavior management strategies.
• Help students develop social skills, appropriate interactions, and positive behaviors.
• Assist with de-escalating student behaviors and request support from General Education teachers and Special Education team members as needed.
• Reinforce SDI concepts already in effect.
• Help students with transitions and activities.
• Support students with personal hygiene needs, including toileting, feeding, and dressing.
• Support students with mobility and adaptive equipment.
• Provide general clerical support for the ESS Team.
• Attend meetings and training sessions.
• Help maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Provide a supportive and positive learning environment.
• Travel locally for training and professional development opportunities as needed.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits with minimal employee cost.
• Texas Teacher Retirement System.
• Professional development offerings, including great books seminars, leadership and special education coursework and pathways, and reduced-tuition graduate degree support with select partner universities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED