Instructional Aide

Oakmont Education; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Oakmont Education seeks a dedicated Instructional Aide to serve as a Building Substitute and Floater for K–8. You will collaborate with teachers to deliver instruction, adapt to various classrooms, and support students’ learning in a dynamic urban setting.

Responsibilities include preparing instructional materials, maintaining progress data, and assisting with differentiated instruction. This role emphasizes safety, positive behavior supports, and contributing to a strong school community.

Qualifications

• Adaptive and flexible to float between K–8 classrooms.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong organizational abilities and data tracking.
• Proficient with classroom technology and learning tools.
• Commitment to improving education opportunities for urban students.

Responsibilities

• Provide substitute and floater coverage across K–8 classrooms.
• Assist teachers with instructional materials and differentiated instruction.
• Maintain progress data and monitor student outcomes.
• Support PBIS initiatives and classroom management.
• Supervise students during non-instructional times and ensure safety.

Skills

Adaptability

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Technology proficiency

Classroom management

Passion for urban education

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree

Job description

Job Purpose

Under the supervision of the Director, the Instructional Aide serves primarily as a Building Substitute and Floater. The primary purpose of this role is to provide versatile instructional support and adaptive classroom coverage across Kindergarten through 8th grade, assisting with instruction for both regular and special needs students.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Serves as the primary building substitute and floater, maintaining flexibility and readiness to step into and cover any K-8 classroom at a moment’s notice.
• Works side by side with the Teacher to function as an appropriate role model for children, providing proper examples, emotional support, a friendly attitude, and general guidance.
• Creates and manages a caring, supportive, purposeful, and stimulating environment conducive to children’s learning.
• Agrees with and commits to the academic goals and philosophy of the organization, and understands, abides by, and implements policies, directives, and guidelines set forth by the management company.
• Provides full classroom coverage and instructional continuity for all K-8 grades upon the Director’s request.
• Assists in classroom management and maintains established classroom routines.
• Assists teachers in preparing instructional materials.
• Maintains data and progress monitoring for assigned students.
• Assists the teacher with differentiated instruction to meet diverse student needs.
• Implements, under the supervision of the assigned teacher or independently during coverage, instructional programs and lesson plans to assist the teacher in improving students’ academic success.
• Conducts instructional activities assigned by the teacher or outlined in substitute plans.
• Works with individual students or small groups to practice and/or reinforce learning concepts and to assist students in reaching their academic goals and grade‑level standards.
• Supervises students during non‑instructional times.
• Uses computers and other technology provided by the organization to assist and support students in their learning.
• Develops classroom experiences that teach students not only facts but how to apply learning to solve real‑world problems.
• Ensures high standards of achievement for all students and maintains an orderly, motivational, aspirational culture, and a strong school community where teaching, learning, and healthy relationships can thrive.
• Supports and participates in the school’s PBIS Program.
• Maintains good order and discipline among the pupils, safeguarding their health and safety.
• Helps maintain neat and orderly classrooms.
• Assists teachers with administrative records, data, and preparation of required reports.
• Adheres to the appropriate code of ethics and student confidentiality.
• Works with staff to improve student learning and achievement.
• Performs all other job duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Education and Experience

• Demonstrated adaptability and willingness to float between different grade levels (K‑8) and subject areas daily.
• Must have a passion for improving educational opportunities for urban students and for building a strong, mission‑driven organization.
• Commitment to continued personal and professional growth and to the organization’s mission, vision, and growth.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Effective organizational skills with the ability to perform multiple tasks.
• Proven effective classroom instructional and management skills across multiple grade bands.
• Passion for working with and teaching youth of various social, educational, and economic backgrounds and levels.
• Willingness to go above and beyond to support students in achieving academic goals.
• Proficiency in the use of technology.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent, or an Associate’s degree.
• Experience: 1–2 years experience working with students; Certification/licensure in appropriate teaching area; Highly Qualified Teacher (HQT) status in teaching assignment (preferred).

Working Conditions

This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment. Requires moving between various classrooms throughout the day. May work with challenging students at times.

Physical Requirements

The usual and customary methods of performing the job’s functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; significant walking and standing throughout the school day; and significant fine finger dexterity.

Supervision Received

Occasional, minimal guidance, but follows established work methods.

Direct Reports

None.

Conclusion

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, qualifications, or physical demands associated with the position.