Special Education Educational Assistant - Queen of Peace, Mishawaka (Mishawaka, IN)

 Special Education
Educational Assistant 

Queen of Peace Catholic School is a vibrant Catholic school dedicated to fostering the spiritual, academic, and personal growth of every student. We are currently seeking a dedicated and compassionate Educational Assistant to join our Special Education Department. This role is essential in providing individualized support to students with diverse learning needs, enabling them to thrive within a faith-based educational environment.

Reports To: Director of Special Education / Principal

Job Summary:

The Educational Assistant works under the direct supervision of the Director of Special Education and/or classroom teacher to provide instructional and behavioral support to students with identified special needs. This position plays a crucial role in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and accommodation plans, fostering an inclusive classroom environment, and promoting the academic and social-emotional development of students within the framework of Catholic values.

Key Responsibilities:

• Student Support:

  • Provide one-on-one and small group academic support to students with special needs in various subjects, as directed by the teacher.

  • Assist students with organization, task completion, and study skills.

  • Reinforce learning concepts and provide opportunities for practice and mastery.

  • Help students stay on task and engaged in classroom activities.

  • Facilitate positive social interactions among students.

  • Assist with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, feeding, mobility) as required and trained, ensuring student dignity and privacy.

• IEP Implementation:

  • Work collaboratively with special education teachers to implement goals and objectives outlined in students' IEPs.

  • Assist in collecting data on student progress towards IEP goals.

  • Support the implementation of accommodations and modifications in the general education setting.

• Behavioral Support:

  • Assist in implementing positive behavior intervention plans.

  • Help de-escalate challenging behaviors and promote self-regulation.

  • Model appropriate social behaviors and conflict resolution skills.

  • Supervise students during classroom activities, transitions, and unstructured times (e.g., recess, lunch).

• Classroom Assistance:

  • Prepare and organize instructional materials and resources.

  • Set up and clean up learning centers or activity stations.

  • Assist with classroom management under the direction of the teacher.

  • Supervise students during special events, field trips, and school activities.

  • Maintain a clean and organized learning environment.

• Communication & Collaboration:

  • Maintain open and effective communication with special education teachers, general education teachers, and the Director of Special Education regarding student progress, concerns, and needs.

  • Participate in team meetings and professional development opportunities as required.

  • Respect confidentiality regarding all student and family information.

• Faith-Based Environment:

  • Uphold and embody the Catholic mission and values of the school in all interactions.

  • Foster a compassionate and supportive environment that reflects Catholic teachings.

  • Participate in school-wide religious activities as appropriate.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associate's Degree or higher in education, child development, or a related field preferred.

• Previous experience working with children, especially those with special needs, in an educational setting is highly desirable.

• Understanding of various disabilities and learning challenges.

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently.

• Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support the success of all students.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the diverse needs of students.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

• Must pass all required background checks and complete Archdiocesan/Diocesan safe environment training.

• Familiarity with Catholic education and its principles is an asset.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily in a classroom setting, working directly with students.

• May involve lifting, bending, or kneeling to assist students.

• Occasional outdoor supervision required.

To Apply:

Please apply at: diocesefwsb.org/careers

If you have any questions, then please reach out to:

Kim Obringer

Queen of Peace Catholic School

4508 Vistula Rd

574-255-0392

kobringer@queenofpeace.cc

Queen of Peace is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

This is a part time position