Long term substitute- Elementary Instructional Assistant

Job Summary:

Under the direct supervision of the Special Education Teacher, Classroom Teacher, and Special Education Coordinator, the Instructional Assistant will work closely with students in the classroom to meet instructional goals and objectives, social-emotional goals and objectives, and maintain appropriate student behavior. 

Essential Job Functions:

-Assist students with special education needs in all aspects of the classroom instruction to maximize inclusion, learning, and achievement of IEP objectives

-Works with students individually and in small groups to reinforce basic academic skills and implement assigned lessons and programs

-Assist with record-keeping procedures to document student learning and performance

-Assist with classroom behavior management to minimize disruptions, ensure a safe and orderly classroom, and ensure students are on task 

-Assist students in non-instructional areas, such as supervising lunch, recess, arrival or dismissal duty

-Any additional tasks assigned by the Special Education Coordinator, Principal, or Assistant Principal

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

-Ability to carry out verbal and written instructions

-Knowledge of academic and social skills unique to elementary-aged students

-Ability to make decisions in the moment to ensure the safety of all students

-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

Qualifications: 

-Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Advanced degree with 1-3 years of previous IA experience is a plus.

Working Conditions:

This is a full-time, temporary, benefited position. The timeline of the position is from December 2, 2024 to June 16, 2025 or the end of the school year.

Job Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Duties are normally performed in a school/classroom environment. Duties may be occasionally performed on field trips away from school. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Regularly required to sit (including sitting on the floor or other hard surface), stand, walk, kneel, talk, hear, operate a computer, handheld learning devices and other office equipment, reach with hands and arms, work indoors or outdoors, and must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Occasionally may need to assist students with standing, sitting, organizational functions or other related general physical tasks.

Compensation and Benefits:

Please review the Unit C Contract and this page to learn more about employee compensation and benefits.

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, genetic information, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, and other administered programs and activities. In addition, students who are homeless or of limited English-speaking ability are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools.

Application Procedure: 

Please apply online at www.generalasp.com/needham/onlineapp

Applications will be considered when a cover letter, resume, three letters of recommendation and transcripts have been attached to our online applications.

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate against students, parents, employees or the general public on the basis of race, color, sex, homeless status, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or age. In addition to the protected classes identified and in regard to employment practices, the Needham Public Schools also does not discriminate based on genetic information, ancestry or status as a veteran.

The Needham Public School System is a member of METCO, Developing Equity and Achievement for Students (IDEAS) and the Greater Boston School Human Resources Network. Candidates who have a strong commitment to active anti-racism are encouraged to apply.