Special Education Assistant Teacher

Job Description: Special Education Assistant Teacher

Role Overview:

Atlas Public Schools is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Assistant Teacher to join our elementary school team. In this role, you will work closely with lead special education teachers to provide individualized academic and behavioral support to students with diverse learning needs. You will play a key role in implementing personalized education plans, supporting classroom management, and fostering an inclusive environment where all students can thrive.

Aligned with Atlas’ mission to educate the whole child, you will bring your creativity, patience, and commitment to educational equity to help make a positive impact in the lives of students with special needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Assist in the implementation of IEPs, helping students achieve their academic, social, and emotional goals. Track and monitor progress, and provide feedback to the lead teacher.

• Classroom Management and Behavior Support: Collaborate with the lead teacher to implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and support positive classroom behavior, providing one-on-one or small-group assistance as needed.

• Facilitate Differentiated Instruction: Help deliver tailored lessons by adapting instructional materials and using strategies like visual aids, manipulatives, and assistive technology to meet each student’s unique needs.

• Provide Academic and Social-Emotional Support: Work directly with students during lessons to support literacy, math, and other core subjects. Foster a nurturing environment that promotes students’ social-emotional development and self-regulation skills.

• Assist with Physical and Medical Needs: Provide necessary support with physical care (e.g., toileting, feeding, mobility) and assist with medical needs in accordance with each student’s plan.

• Collaborate with Special and General Education Teachers: Partner with special education and general education teachers to ensure consistency and inclusion in the classroom. Attend planning meetings and contribute insights on student progress.
• Support Inclusion and Peer Interactions: Facilitate inclusive learning experiences by helping students with special needs participate in general education settings, recess, lunch, and field trips. Promote positive peer interactions and social skills development.

• Adapt Classroom Materials and Assessments: Modify or create materials and assessments to ensure accessibility for students with different learning abilities, allowing them to demonstrate their understanding in suitable ways.

• Assist with Transitions and Routines: Provide support during transitions between activities or classrooms, helping students manage changes with clear expectations and structure. Reinforce daily routines that promote independence and stability.

• Communicate with Families: Collaborate with the lead teacher to communicate regularly with families about student progress, providing updates on successes and areas of growth.

Qualifications:

• Education:  Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent experience in special education or related field).
• Certification:  Substitute certification required or the ability to obtain one (if not already certified in education).
• Experience:  Prior experience working with students with special needs in an educational setting is preferred.
• Background Check: Must pass a comprehensive background check, including the Family Care Safety Registry.

Skills:

• Understanding of special education principles, behavior management strategies, and differentiated instruction.
• Ability to build strong relationships with students, families, and staff.
• Patience, empathy, and strong communication skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic school environment.