Elementary Teaching Assistant

Needham Public Schools is an inclusive, dynamic, and multicultural community seeking an energetic and skilled Elementary Teaching Assistant to join our team. To enhance our goals of supporting every child, Needham Public Schools seeks candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Job Summary:
Under the direct supervision of the Special Education Teacher, Classroom Teacher, and Special Education Coordinator, the Teaching Assistant will work closely with students in the classroom to meet instructional goals and objectives, social-emotional goals and objectives, and maintain appropriate student behavior.

Essential Job Functions:

• Assist students with special education needs in all aspects of the classroom instruction to maximize inclusion, learning, and achievement of IEP objectives

• Works with students individually and in small groups to reinforce basic academic skills and implement assigned lessons and programs

• Assist with record-keeping procedures to document student learning and performance

• Assist with classroom behavior management to minimize disruptions, ensure a safe and orderly classroom, and ensure students are on task

• Assist students in non-instructional areas, such as supervising lunch, recess, arrival or dismissal duty

• Any additional tasks assigned by the Special Education Coordinator, Principal or Assistant Principal

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to carry out verbal and written instructions

• Knowledge of academic and social skills unique to elementary-aged students

• Ability to make decisions in the moment to ensure the safety of all students

• Ability to establish a supportive and compassionate relationship with students with special needs

• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple team members

• Ability to maintain confidential information regarding students and families

• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Qualifications:

• Pursuit of Bachelor's Degree in Education or in a field working with elementary-aged children

• Prior experience with students with special needs preferred

Working Conditions:
This is a full-time, temporary, benefited position. The timeline of the position is from August 26, 2024 to June 16, 2025or the end of the school year.

Application Procedure:
Applications will be considered when a cover letter, resume, three letters of recommendation and transcripts have been attached to our online applications.

Compensation and Benefits:
Please review the Unit C Contract https://www.needham.k12.ma.us/departments/human_resources/contracts and this page http://www.needham.k12.ma.us/departments/human_resources/benefits to learn more about employee compensation and benefits.

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate against students, parents, employees or the general public on the basis of race, color, sex, homeless status, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or age. In addition to the protected classes identified and in regard to employment practices, the Needham Public Schools also does not discriminate based on genetic information, ancestry or status as a veteran.

The Needham Public School System is a member of METCO, Developing Equity and Achievement for Students (IDEAS) and the Greater Boston School Human Resources Network. Candidates who have a strong commitment to active anti-racism are encouraged to apply.