Instructional Aide, SPED

The Opportunity:
Behind every successful student is a passionate and dedicated team. Together, we will change the odds for underserved students, ensuring that every student is prepared to excel in all areas of life.

Instructional Assistants support classroom teacher(s) in providing a high quality, personalized education program for students during the school day and/or in the after school program. The Instructional Assistant position is an ideal position for individuals who have an interest in pursuing a career as an educator.

What You Will Do:

• Support classroom systems/procedures and help manage student behavior to ensure all students are fully engaged in learning
• Develop and implement lesson plans and classroom activities consistent with Tennessee State Standards and JCS Instructional Guidelines
• Assess students regularly in accordance with JCS guidelines and analyze assessment data
• Collaborate with JCS team members to improve own and others’ instructional practices; share best practices
• Help classroom teacher(s) provide students and their families with regular and timely information on classroom activities and student progress
• May help track critical student information and maintain accurate student records, including attendance, in accordance with JCS procedures
• Identify unique student needs and collaborate with other team members and outside service providers to diagnose and address learning challenges
• Assist with planning and executing differentiated instruction for students with a variety of needs, including: parallel teaching, small group and/or one-on-one instruction.
• Teach students in the after school program, especially intervention and acceleration for students below grade level
• Support a school-wide culture of high expectations that includes college preparation for all students; work with the Academic Counselor to support students with academic progress
• Teach or co-teach Advisory class with the objective of developing students’ character and habits
• Actively participate in professional development activities, including: training sessions and working with lead teacher, principal, instructional coaches
• Work towards career as an educator, which may include enrolling in teacher credential program
• Demonstrate knowledge of, and support, JCS mission, vision, standards, policies and procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality standards, and the code of ethical behavior

What You Will Bring:

• Knowledge of child cognitive development and different learning styles
• Ability and willingness to implement JCS Instructional Guidelines and Best Practices
• Ability and willingness to reflect and improve
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to collaborate with colleagues, parents and community
• Associate’s degree or successful completion of 2 years of college experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Teaching, or related field preferred
• 1+ year working with students as a teacher, teacher intern, or teaching assistant preferred

Compensation

Journey Community Schools offers its employees a competitive salary and benefits, including paid time off, small payroll contributions for rich benefit plans, life insurance/short-term and long-term disability, participation in a TN state retirement plan, tuition reimbursement plan, and adoption assistance program.

Journey Community Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other occupationally irrelevant criteria. JCS promotes affirmative action for minorities, women, disabled persons, and veterans.