Instructional Assistant

The Westview School; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

The Westview School in Houston, Texas is seeking motivated instructional assistants to provide vital support to students with autism spectrum disorder. The role involves working closely with certified teachers to reinforce learning through instructional strategies and assisting in the overall development of students.

Candidates should have experience with children with special needs and be prepared to supervise students during various school activities. This role plays a crucial part in fostering an engaging learning environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children with special needs preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the educational experiences of students with autism.
• Reinforce lessons through one-on-one and small group interaction.
• Implement instructional strategies like scaffolding and modeling.
• Guide students on classroom behavior.
• Supervise students during breaks and on field trips.

Skills

Experience with special needs children

Job description

The Westview School seeks motivated instructional assistants to work under the supervision of certified teachers to provide instructional support to students with autism spectrum disorder. These individuals support students’ learning and development by applying teaching and learning strategies.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children with special needs preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties

• Support the educational experiences of students with autism
• Reinforce lessons by reviewing material one‑on‑one and in small groups with students
• Support learning by implementing instructional strategies such as scaffolding, modeling, prompting, checking for understanding, and questioning
• Provide opportunities for students to engage in and practice communication and social language skills
• Serve as a guide in instructing students on proper classroom behavior
• Support behavior by implementing proactive techniques (e.g., Capturing Kids’ Hearts, Responsive Classrooms)
• Supervise students during lunch, restroom breaks, and ancillary classes, and between classes or on field trips
• Supervise students on the playground by being actively involved with them (e.g., overseeing play, ensuring students are involved with each other)
• Assist students who need additional help learning a specific concept
• Assist the teacher in preparing instructional materials and gathering resources
• Help maintain a neat and orderly classroom
• Help the teacher to keep administrative records and prepare required reports
• Lead class instruction when the teacher is absent
• Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers
• Keep the teacher informed of special needs or problems of individual students
• Participate in staff development programs to support student learning
• Participate in faculty meetings and special events as assigned
• Follow the teacher’s directives