QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates must hold an Associate's Degree (or completed 2 years of college coursework) or have passed the Paraprofessional Exam. Experience working with middle- and high school-age students, especially those who face behavioral, social, or emotional challenges, is highly valued. The role requires strong interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective support for diverse student needs. Candidates should be familiar with basic behavior management strategies and techniques and able to work collaboratively within a team to follow established behavior intervention plans.  Formal training in specific physical restraint techniques, or willingness to be trained, is required.

 

DESCRIPTION

The Teacher Assistant for New Hope Academy performs a variety of paraprofessional instructional support tasks which assists the teacher and/or other professional staff working with students in the classroom setting.  The teaching assistant provides instructional support to the teacher in the daily management and instruction of students, and is responsible for performing instructional and clerical tasks to support the teacher in routine activities and to help carry out daily classroom activities.  The role provides support to students with significant behavioral, social, and emotional needs. Working under the guidance of the teacher, behavior counselor, and administration, the Teacher Assistant helps implement individualized behavior and academic plans, fosters a positive learning environment, and assists in maintaining a structured, safe classroom setting. This role requires a patient, flexible, and empathetic individual committed to helping students achieve success in a non-traditional school environment.

 

GENERAL DUTIES (May not include all duties performed)

• Assists assigned classroom teacher(s) in conducting instructional programs, directing games and fine-motor activities, physical exercise programs, or otherwise works with the teacher to provide instructional or developmental activities for the classroom setting.
• Performs other classroom or school wide clerical tasks, such as preparing, compiling, or making copies of instructional materials and reports, typing and filing classroom or student records, or distributing and inventorying materials and other instructional materials as assigned.
• Assists the lead teacher with classroom management and instruction, ensuring a supportive learning environment.
• Implements behavior intervention plans and supports students in following classroom rules and expectations.
• Provides one-on-one or small group assistance to students, reinforcing academic and social skills.
• Monitors and documents student behavior, progress, and incidents, reporting significant concerns to the lead teacher or school counselor.
• Supports students during transitions, meals, and recreational activities to promote consistency in behavior expectations.
• Participates in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development to stay informed about effective intervention techniques.
• Collaborates with school staff, including counselors and administrators, to address individual student needs.
• Receives training on approved de-escalation techniques and physical intervention methods.
• Performs other related work as assigned.

 

SUPERVISION

Work is performed under the supervision of the School Principal in conjunction with the Central Office personnel who support alternative programs.

 

WORK CONDITIONS

This position is based within an alternative school setting and involves working directly with students who may exhibit challenging behaviors. The role requires regular physical activity, including moving throughout the classroom and playground, assisting students as needed, and supporting de-escalation efforts when necessary. The work follows standard school hours, although occasional after-school meetings or training sessions may be required. The position may involve exposure to emotionally heightened situations, requiring the ability to manage potential disruptions calmly and professionally.

 

CONTRACT LENGTH

190 Days