Instructional Assistant

Position:                           INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT

Department:                     May report to Early Learning Center (ELC), Lower School or Upper School

Supervisor(s):                  ELC, Lower School or Upper School Principals

FLSA Status:                    Non-Exempt 

Position Type:                  Full-time, 10-month, Benefits Eligible

POSITION SUMMARY:    

Under the direction of School Principals, the Instructional Assistant works with teachers in all departments to provide support for and reinforce classroom objectives for effective student learning; and help maintain a positive learning environment ensuring students’ success in school.   

PRIMARY DUTIES: 

• Provide support to classroom Teacher by maintaining and monitoring students’ classroom progress and supporting a positive classroom culture and environment.
• Provide one-on-one instruction/coaching to students as requested by teacher.
• Assist in preparing classroom materials.
• Assist in the physical care of the students and/or classroom as needed by the situation and department, including feeding, dressing, toileting, ambulation as needed.
• Provide Crisis Prevention Intervention (physically restrain student when necessary to prevent harm to student, classmates and other staff members).
• Escort physically limited student(s) from class to class.
• Assist students with mobility.
• Supervise gym area and other common areas as needed.
• Lunch Duty.
• Function as Teacher when a Teacher is absent.
• Update students’ progress reports and other clerical duties as necessary.
• Provide coverage in classes outside of the regular classroom environment; including Physical Education, Art and Dance.
• Support the school’s Strategic Planning initiatives with an emphasis on strengthening the culture. Demonstrate commitment to the school purpose, vision, and mission. 
• Other duties as assigned.

 REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES: 

• Flexible, patient, dependable; always demonstrating good judgement.
• Able to perform job functions with attention to time and attendance.
• Team player possessing good interactive skills.
• Respond responsibly in crisis situations.
• Possess a positive attitude towards students and committed to providing a positive learning environment. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Must possess New York State certification as Teaching Assistant or attain within one year of employment
• Experience working with adolescents strongly preferred  
• Proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) 
• Regents or Local High School Diploma, or GED required

SECURITY CLEARANCE:   

• Required clearances include medical clearance, fingerprinted by the NYC Board of Ed, SCR, and SEL clearance 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Prolonged periods of walking in and around the building
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.