2026-27 Special Education Instructional Assistant

Worcester Cultural Academy Charter Public School is seeking a patient, skilled, and student-centered Special Education Instructional Assistant to support students with disabilities across grades K–7. Depending on student need, this role may involve working as a dedicated 1:1 paraprofessional, providing push-in support in general education classrooms, or supporting instruction in our self-contained special education setting — always under the direction and supervision of our special education teacher. We are looking for someone who brings genuine commitment to inclusive education, the ability to build trusting relationships with students who have complex needs, and the flexibility to show up differently every day based on what students require. Candidates who reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of our Worcester community are strongly encouraged to apply. Who We Are Worcester Cultural Academy (WCA) is a growing charter public school that opened in August 2023 with a vision of becoming a K–8 community. We launched as a K–4 school and have added a grade every year since — this fall we welcome our first 7th graders. As an EL (Expeditionary Learning) Education school, we believe in hands-on learning that challenges students to grow in three dimensions: mastery of knowledge and skills, character, and high-quality work. We partner with organizations like the EcoTarium, Worcester Art Museum, and Hanover Theater, anchoring our curriculum in Learning Expeditions that make learning meaningful and real. Our faculty and staff — our “Adult Crew” — show up for students and each other every day. As a Special Education Instructional Assistant, you will be an essential part of how we ensure every student at WCA has genuine access to a rich, ambitious education. What You’ll Do The specific configuration of this role will be determined based on student need and may include one or more of the following settings: 1:1 paraprofessional support, push-in services in general education classrooms, and/or support in the self-contained special education classroom. All work is carried out under the direction and supervision of the special education teacher. Direct Student Support Provide individualized support to students with IEPs across academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and daily living skill areas, as directed by the special education teacher Implement accommodations, modifications, and IEP goal-aligned strategies consistently and with fidelity Support students’ access to Learning Expeditions and grade-level content, helping them participate meaningfully in WCA’s project-based curriculum Assist students in developing independence, self-advocacy, and self-regulation skills — with the goal of reducing reliance on adult support over time Provide 1:1 support to an assigned student as needed, following their individual behavior support plan and IEP goals with consistency and care Push-In and Inclusive Classroom Support Support students with IEPs in general education classrooms, working alongside classroom teachers to ensure meaningful inclusion Implement push-in support strategies as directed by the special education teacher, including scaffolding, prompting, and data collection Help create and maintain an inclusive classroom environment where students with disabilities are full participants in the learning community Communicate observations about student performance and needs to the special education teacher on an ongoing basis Self-Contained Classroom Support Assist the special education teacher in delivering instruction in the self-contained classroom setting Support small group and individual activities, helping students engage with academic content and meet IEP goals Assist with transitions, routines, and classroom management in the self-contained setting Help maintain a structured, predictable, and supportive environment that meets the sensory and emotional needs of students Student Wellbeing and Community Build warm, consistent, and trusting relationships with students that support their sense of safety and belonging Support students during arrival, dismissal, lunch, recess, and other non-instructional times Respond to behavioral needs using positive, trauma-informed, and restorative approaches consistent with WCA’s school culture and individual student plans Communicate observations about student wellbeing, progress, and concerns promptly to the special education teacher and appropriate school staff Data, Documentation, and Professional Responsibilities Collect and record data on student progress toward IEP goals as directed by the special education teacher Assist with preparation of instructional materials and student learning environments Participate in team meetings, IEP meetings as appropriate, professional development, and school-wide events Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student records, IEP information, and all matters related to students with disabilities Perform other duties as assigned by the special education teacher or school leader What You Bring High school diploma or G.E.D. required; Associate’s degree or coursework in Special Education, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field preferred Experience working with students with disabilities in a school, clinical, therapeutic, or community setting Familiarity with IEPs, accommodation and modification implementation, and special education practices Ability to support students across a range of disabilities, including learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, emotional/behavioral disabilities, and developmental delays Knowledge of or willingness to learn positive behavior support strategies, trauma-informed care, and restorative approaches Patience, consistency, and the ability to maintain composure in challenging moments Strong communication and collaboration skills — you take direction well, ask good questions, and keep the right people informed Ability to support students with a wide range of learning and behavioral needs, including English Language Learners who also have IEPs Flexibility and a positive, solution-oriented attitude in a dynamic school environment Commitment to inclusive education and to the belief that students with disabilities belong fully in our school community Must successfully pass all required background checks including CORI and SORI screening Bilingual (English/Portuguese or English/Spanish) and bicultural candidates strongly preferred Position Details Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: $19–$25 per hour, based on experience Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–3:30 PM Work Location: In person Benefits: 403(b) retirement plan Health, dental, and vision insurance Life insurance Paid time off How to Apply To apply, submit your resume and optional cover letter at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5XF8PK7

Salary : $19 - $28