Special Needs Assistant

DPS•Denver, CO

18h•Onsite

About The Position

Applications will be received until August 26, 2026 or until filled. If the position is not filled by then, we may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Interested applicants must apply online by visiting the Denver Public Schools job board at careers.dpsk12.org. About this job: Support a safe, positive, nurturing, and engaging environment that promotes the optimal growth, development, and success of children. Build and maintain strong relationships with students, families, staff, visitors, and community members through effective communication, professionalism, and positive interactions. Provide appropriate supervision and an organized, orderly learning environment that supports student well-being and achievement. Uphold, interpret, and communicate the philosophy, policies, and procedures of the district while helping ensure compliance with established standards and expectations.

Requirements

Minimum High School Diploma/GED
Lead for racial and educational excellence and work to dismantle systems of oppression and inequity in our community, along with believing in and supporting all students so they feel seen and heard with access to high quality education.
Live and work with a permanent home address in Colorado while working with us.
Have the ability with or without accommodations to meet the physical demands of the position.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have at least three (3) months (455 hours) of full-time or equivalent part-time satisfactory and verifiable experience with school-age children.

Responsibilities

Provide independent care, support, supervision, and curriculum activities for students in 1:1 and small-group settings in accordance with Individual Education Plans (IEP's), and the daily Discovery Link schedule
Plan and implement engaging stationary and movement based activities, including outdoor games and recreational programs, aligned with student needs and program requirements
Maintain active supervision of students in all program areas, ensuring safety, accurate student tracking, and compliance with Discovery Link, Extended Learning and Community School (ELCS), licensing, and district requirements
Review daily schedules, staffing assignments, and supervision expectations to ensure effective program operations and student support
Follow all Discovery Link, ELCS, Colorado Department of Human Services, district policies, and licensing regulations, including maintaining required staff-to-child ratios at all times
Support positive student behavior and uphold district expectations by implementing behavior management practices consistent with the district Behavior Matrix
Complete required accident reports, incident documentation, and other operational records accurately and promptly, with supervisor support as needed
Maintain a punctual, reliable work schedule, including participation in site-specific camps, district break camps, and substitute assignments across program sites as requested
Prepare, maintain, and restore program spaces, ensuring cleanliness, organization, and compliance with housekeeping and safety standards
Foster positive, professional relationships with families, Discovery Link staff, school personnel, and community partners; provide operational information as appropriate and refer questions or concerns to supervisors when necessary
Other duties as assigned