Teacher Assistant

BLOCK INSTITUTE • New York, NY

7d • $22 - $22 • Onsite

About The Position

Block Institute is a Preschool Special Education program for children ages 3-5. We are located in the Coney Island section of Brooklyn. Our main focus is to educate and ensure the well-being of our students. Within the classroom environment, we are looking for Teacher Assistants with a Teacher Assistant Certification to assist in meeting the educational needs of our students. The position is on a 12 -month school calendar from 8:00am - 3:30pm, M-F. Block Institute provides a supportive atmosphere in which you will gain experience and knowledge to enhance your career path. The Block Institute of Brooklyn, New York is a non-profit, non-sectarian agency dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families. Established in 1962, Block Institute has extensive experience providing individualized services for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Requirements

• New York State Issued Teacher Assistant Certification required
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience working with children, preferably in an educational or childcare setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Patience, empathy, and a passion for supporting student learning.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one or small group assistance to students during lessons and activities to support their engagement and learning.
• Foster an inclusive, positive classroom environment that encourages social, emotional, and academic development.
• Facilitate positive peer interactions and promote students’ social skills.
• Help students with daily routines, including arrival, meals, bathroom use, and transitions between classroom activities.
• Support students’ participation in group activities, fostering communication and teamwork.
• Observe student behavior and implement positive behavior management strategies in collaboration with the lead teacher.
• Assist in addressing challenging behaviors and providing consistent, supportive guidance.
• Communicate regularly with teachers and instructional staff about student progress and needs.
• Support communication with families regarding students’ achievements and challenges as needed.
• Maintain a safe, orderly, and accessible classroom environment.
• Supervise students during free play, recess, or outdoor activities to ensure their safety.
• Adhere to all health and safety policies and procedures at all times while supervising students.
• Assist in preparing and organizing instructional materials and resources for lessons and classroom activities.
• Participate in emergency interventions and follow school protocols as required.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the classroom teacher, Director of Education, or Education Coordinator in alignment with the role.

Benefits

• Rewarding Work in a team environment.
• UFT Union Membership
• Paid vacation, sick, personal days, and holidays.
• 403(B) retirement plan.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Flexible spending account (Dependent Care, Medical, Parking, and Transit).
• Employee Appreciation Programs and Events.
• Professional Development opportunities.
• Discounts on Broadway tickets, movie tickets, theme parks, sporting events, gift certificates & more

What This Job Offers

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