EL Assistant

Reports To: EL Teacher and Building Principal

Employment Type: School Year Position

Position Summary

The English Learner (EL) Assistant supports the academic, language, and social success of English Learner students in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade. Working under the direction of the EL Teacher, the EL Assistant provides instructional support in both the general education classroom and the EL classroom. This position helps students develop English language proficiency while supporting their participation and achievement in the general education curriculum.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support to English Learner (EL) students in grades K–5 during classroom instruction and in the EL classroom.
• Assist the EL Teacher with implementing language development lessons and interventions aligned with students' English language proficiency levels.
• Work with individual students and small groups to reinforce language, reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
• Support students in accessing grade-level curriculum by providing appropriate instructional assistance and accommodations as directed by the EL Teacher.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers and the EL Teacher to ensure consistent instructional support and student success.
• Encourage student engagement, confidence, and independence while promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Assist with preparing instructional materials, classroom resources, and learning activities.
• Help monitor student progress and provide observations and feedback to the EL Teacher regarding academic and language development.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation as assigned.
• Supervise students as needed during instructional activities, transitions, and other assigned duties.
• Foster positive relationships with students, staff, and families while maintaining confidentiality regarding student information.
• Participate in professional development and staff meetings as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the EL Teacher or Building Principal.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to work effectively with elementary-aged students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Preferred:

• Associate's degree, completion of at least 60 college credit hours, or the ability to meet state requirements for instructional assistants.
• Experience working with English Learners or multilingual students in an educational setting.
• Bilingual proficiency is preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of language acquisition strategies and culturally responsive instructional practices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to establish positive relationships with students, families, and staff.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to follow instructional plans developed by the EL Teacher.
• Ability to support students with varying academic and language proficiency levels.
• Basic technology skills to support instruction and maintain records.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and culturally responsive learning environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the school day.
• Ability to lift and carry instructional materials up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to actively supervise and assist elementary students in classroom and school settings.

Work Environment

The EL Assistant works in both general education classrooms and designated EL instructional spaces throughout the school day. The position requires frequent interaction with students, teachers, administrators, and families and supports a collaborative educational environment focused on student achievement and language development.