Dedicated Special Education Aide / Educational Assistant - SY 2026-2027

Shining Star Pcs; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Shining Stars Montessori Academy in Washington, DC seeks an dedicated Individual Student Support Aide to provide one-on-one IEP support within a Montessori environment. The role focuses on helping students access the prepared environment, engage in purposeful work, and build independence, self-regulation, and confidence.

Responsibilities include implementing strategies with the Lead Guide and Student Support Team, supporting transitions and social interactions, observing progress, and

Qualifications

• College coursework or degree in education, psychology, child development, or related field preferred.
• Experience supporting children with IEPs, including autism spectrum.
• Demonstrated maturity, patience, and strong interpersonal awareness.
• Ability to balance providing support with fostering student independence.
• Commitment to inclusive practices and the Montessori philosophy.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized, one-on-one support aligned with IEP goals.
• Collaborate with Lead Guide and Student Support Team to implement strategies.
• Support transitions, social interactions, and participation in all parts of the school day.
• Encourage self-regulation, concentration, and positive peer relationships.
• Observe and document student progress to support planning and reflection.
• Maintain a calm, consistent, and respectful presence within the classroom community.

Skills

IEP support

Montessori environment

Classroom support

Observational documentation

Education

Education background

Job description

AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY TO BE PART OF AN ACCREDITED PUBLIC CHARTER MONTESSORI SCHOOL AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY IN WASHINGTON, DC

Job Opportunity: Dedicated Special Education Aide/Educational Assistant
Location: Washington, DC (Brookland)
Department: Academics/Curriculum and Instruction
Application Deadline: Until filled
Expected Start Date of Position: August 2026
Compensation: Salary will be commensurate with degree, certification and years of
experience
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Title: Individual Student Support Aide (1:1 IEP Support, Montessori Environment)

Position Overview
Shining Stars Montessori Academy seeks a grounded, attentive, and compassionate Individual Student Support Aide to provide one-on-one support for students whose Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) require consistent, individualized assistance. In alignment with Montessori principles, this role supports each child in accessing the prepared environment, engaging in purposeful work, and developing independence, confidence, and self-regulation.
Key Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized support in accordance with IEP goals while honoring the child’s independence and dignity
• Work in close partnership with the Lead Guide and Student Support Team to

implement appropriate strategies and accommodations

• Gently guide the student’s engagement in the work cycle, offering support without fostering over-reliance
• Support transitions, social interactions, and participation in all aspects of the school day
• Encourage self-regulation, concentration, and positive peer relationships
• Observe and document student progress to support ongoing planning and reflection
• Maintain a calm, consistent, and respectful presence within the classroom community

Qualifications:

• College coursework or degree in education, psychology, child development, or a
  related field preferred
• Prior experience supporting children with IEPs, including those on the autism
  spectrum
• Demonstrated maturity, patience, and strong interpersonal awareness
• Ability to balance providing support with fostering student independence
• Commitment to inclusive practices and the Montessori philosophy

Preferred Qualifications:

• Montessori experience or training
• Familiarity with developmental and behavioral support strategies