Instructional Assistant

Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange; Garden Grove (CA); On-site; USD 24,796 - 27,552; Full time

Job summary

Pax Christi Academies, part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange, is seeking an Instructional Assistant at La Purisima (Orange) campus to support teachers and nurture students' academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.

The role focuses on assisting in reading, writing, math, and other subjects, preparing instructional materials, supervising students, and helping integrate technology while upholding a faith-based, collaborative learning environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; college coursework preferred.
• Experience with elementary-aged students preferred.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities; Catholic faith expected.

Responsibilities

• Support classroom teachers in delivering instruction and learning objectives.
• Assist individual students and small groups with reading, writing, math.
• Help prepare instructional materials and displays.
• Monitor and supervise students during activities and events.
• Maintain a positive, organized classroom environment.
• Assist with technology integration and educational software.
• Perform clerical duties and maintain student records.
• Participate in faculty meetings and professional development.
• Maintain confidentiality and collaborate with staff and families.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Patience

Flexibility

Educational technology

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree or coursework in education preferred

Tools

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Title: Instructional Assistant

Location: La Purisima (Orange)

Pax Christi Academies is a community of five vibrant Catholic elementary schools in the Diocese of Orange, united in our mission to educate students in Faith, Intellect, Character, and Citizenship. Our schools provide Christ-centered, academically excellent learning environments that nurture the whole child.

We are seeking an Instructional Assistant to join our school communities. The Instructional Assistant supports teachers in providing a safe, engaging, and nurturing learning environment that promotes the academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth of elementary students.

Essential Functions: Because all Pax Christi Academies employees represent the Roman Catholic Church, they are expected to conduct themselves according to the goals and mission of the Church in performing their work.

Responsibilities

• Support classroom teachers in delivering instruction and reinforcing learning objectives.
• Work with individual students and small groups to provide academic assistance in reading, writing, mathematics, and other subject areas.
• Assist in preparing instructional materials, classroom displays, and learning activities.
• Monitor and supervise students during classroom activities, recess, lunch, assemblies, field trips, and other school events as assigned.
• Help maintain a positive, organized, and welcoming classroom environment.
• Assist students with assignments while encouraging independence and confidence.
• Observe student progress and communicate concerns or achievements to the classroom teacher.
• Support classroom management by reinforcing school and classroom expectations for behavior.
• Assist with technology integration, including helping students use classroom devices and educational software.
• Perform clerical duties such as copying, filing, organizing instructional materials, and maintaining student records.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student information and school matters.
• Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and school events as required.
• Demonstrate professionalism and collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, staff, students, and families.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal or supervising teacher.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; Associate degree or college coursework in education or a related field preferred.
• Previous experience working with elementary-aged children in a school, childcare, or educational setting preferred.Knowledge of child development and instructional support practices.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Patience, flexibility, and a positive attitude.
• Basic proficiency with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and educational technology.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Practicing Catholic

Work Conditions

• Work primarily in a classroom and school campus setting, requiring frequent use of standard educational technology, and office equipment such as computers, telephones, projectors and printers.
• Regular interaction with students, staff, faculty, and visitors in a professional and faith-based environment.
• Follow a structured school schedule but often work additional hours to meet before or after school responsibilities for preparation, grading assignments, assigned tasks, attending school activities or events.
• Some local travel may be required for meetings, training, field trips, or work‑related events.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time with frequent walking and movement around the classroom, campus or office facilities to support programs and operational needs.
• Speak clearly and project your voice to communicate with the classroom as a group, individual students, parents, colleagues, and fellow staff members.
• Manual dexterity required for operating office equipment, preparing materials, and managing paperwork.
• Visual and auditory ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, students, and visitors in person, via email, and by phone. Maintain visual and auditory awareness to monitor student activities, read materials, and respond to classroom situations.
• Must be able to set up and dismantle equipment required for meetings, programs, or campus activities as needed.
• Bend, reach, or kneel when assisting students or handling classroom materials.
• Ability to lift and carry items up to 25 pounds, such as materials, supplies, and event equipment.

Compensation

• $18.00- $20.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications