Instructional Assistant (General Ed)
Classified instructional support role providing assistance in general education classrooms
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About Our Organization
We are committed to providing exceptional educational services and creating a positive learning environment for our students, staff, and community. Our organization values integrity, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do.
Position Overview
The Instructional Assistant provides instructional support and assistance to teachers and students in general education classrooms. This role helps create a positive learning environment by working with individual students and small groups, assisting with classroom management, and supporting instructional activities. The assistant works under the direction of certified teachers to reinforce learning concepts and help ensure all students have the support they need to succeed.
Responsibilities
Instructional Support
- Provide instructional assistance to students under the direction of certified teachers
- Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce learning concepts and skills
- Assist teachers with lesson preparation, material organization, and classroom setup
- Support students with academic tasks, following teacher guidance and instructional plans
- Monitor student progress and provide feedback to teachers on student performance
- Assist with classroom management and behavior support strategies
- Help maintain a positive, inclusive, and productive learning environment
- Support students with diverse learning needs and accommodations
- Assist with technology integration and use of instructional tools and resources
Student Supervision
- Supervise student behavior and enforce safety rules and regulations
- Monitor students and provide appropriate assistance as needed
- Respond appropriately to emergencies including medical situations and behavioral incidents
- Communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents regarding student behavior and incidents
- Complete required documentation including incident reports and behavior logs
- Maintain order and discipline while fostering a positive environment
- Attend mandatory safety meetings and training sessions on student supervision
Additional Responsibilities
- Assist with grading assignments and maintaining student records as directed by teachers
- Help prepare and organize instructional materials, bulletin boards, and classroom displays
- Support students during independent work time and learning centers
- Assist with classroom technology setup and troubleshooting
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment
- Support students during lunch, recess, and other non-instructional periods as assigned
- Assist with field trips and special school events
- Participate in staff meetings and professional development as requested
- Provide feedback to teachers on student progress and behavior observations
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent (minimum)
- Associate's degree, two years of college coursework, or passing score on paraeducator assessment (as required by state/district)
- Ability to pass background check and fingerprint clearance
- Physical ability to perform job duties including standing, walking, and light lifting
- Basic reading, writing, and math skills
- Ability to follow directions and work collaboratively with teachers
- Patience and positive attitude when working with students
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student information
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate's degree or higher in education or related field
- Previous experience working with children or in an educational setting
- Experience working with diverse student populations
- Knowledge of instructional strategies and learning support techniques
- Technology skills including familiarity with educational software and devices
- Bilingual skills (as applicable to district needs)
- First aid and CPR certification
- Training in classroom management or behavior support strategies
Skills & Competencies
- Ability to work effectively with students of various ages and ability levels
- Strong communication skills for interacting with students, teachers, and parents
- Patience and flexibility in adapting to changing classroom needs
- Basic understanding of instructional methods and learning support strategies
- Ability to follow teacher directions and implement instructional activities
- Organizational skills for managing materials and supporting multiple tasks
- Technology skills for using educational software and classroom devices
- Positive attitude and enthusiasm for supporting student learning
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
- Cultural sensitivity and awareness
Work Environment
This position works primarily in general education classroom settings, supporting teachers and students throughout the school day. The instructional assistant may work with individual students, small groups, or provide whole-class support as needed. The role involves frequent interaction with students and collaboration with teachers. The position requires flexibility to adapt to different classroom environments and instructional activities. The assistant may be assigned to support multiple classrooms or work with a single teacher, depending on school needs.
Physical Requirements
This position requires the ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and kneel frequently throughout the workday. The role involves occasional lifting and carrying of materials and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Employees must be able to move around the classroom and school building, assist students with mobility needs, and participate in physical activities as part of instructional support. The position requires manual dexterity for handling instructional materials and technology. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Benefits & Perks
Standard Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities. Additional benefits may vary based on employment status and location.
In Addition to Our Standard Benefits Package
Instructional support staff receive:
- Professional development opportunities in education and instructional support
- School calendar schedule with holidays and summers off
- Opportunities for advancement and career growth in education
- Experience working in a supportive educational environment
Legal & Compliance
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
At-Will Employment
This position is at-will, meaning either the employee or the employer may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, except as may be limited by applicable law or collective bargaining agreement.
Background Check Policy
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include criminal history, employment verification, and reference checks, as permitted by applicable law.