Program Assistant / Teacher Assistant

StaffVengers; Landover (MD); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

StaffVengers is looking for a dedicated Program Assistant to support students' academic and behavioral needs. This role involves assisting in classroom management, implementing lesson plans, and ensuring a safe and structured learning environment. Ideal candidates will possess experience in special education and demonstrate strong communication and crisis management skills.

Benefits

Company-paid insurances

Employee Assistance Program

403(b) Retirement Plan

Educational Funds Assistance

Paid Holidays and Leave

Health and Dental Insurance options

Qualifications

• Minimum one year of experience in special education or similar settings.
• Bilingual abilities are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist with students in classrooms and hallways, maintaining documentation.
• Support academic programs, lesson plans, and IEP goals.
• Manage student behavior and ensure safety.

Skills

Crisis management

Communication skills

Bilingual abilities

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Program Assistants manage students' behavior, ensure students' safety through the implementation of the behavior management system, school rules, and The Foundation Schools' policies and procedures, and reinforce positive behaviors.

Program Assistants support the academic program by working under the direction of the classroom teacher to implement lesson plans and meet IEP goals.

Program Assistants are responsible for the completion of behavioral documentation within assigned deadlines.

Program Assistants also provide staff assistance and program support through participation in meetings, committees, and special activities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Assist with students throughout the school day in both the classrooms and hallways, and maintain required electronic and paper documentation regarding students’ behaviors and activities within assigned deadlines.
2. Assist teachers with the implementation of both individual and group classroom assignments, lesson plans, and the administration of tests and examinations; take direction from the teacher regarding delegated tasks.
3. Demonstrate basic knowledge of academic subjects and the ability to assist students with classwork; provide coverage and carry out lesson plans for teachers during absences or when they need to be away from the classroom during the school day.
4. Reinforce expectations for learning and set classroom structure to encourage student participation and appropriate behavior.
5. Help to promote a safe, structured, creative, and engaging learning environment; assist with preparation of classroom materials, distribution of books and supplies, and other basic clerical duties.
6. Assist with students’ transition between classrooms, during lunch periods, during students’ arrivals and departures, or other unstructured times.
7. Demonstrate clear and professional boundaries with all students.
8. Understand how students’ disabilities impact their behavior and ability to learn; display knowledge of students’ diagnoses and adapt intervention strategies accordingly to meet IEP and BIP requirements.
9. Manage student behavior through the implementation of the behavior management system, school rules, policies, and procedures; model appropriate behavior during the school day.
10. Identify behaviors that could lead to a crisis or disrupt learning; use effective behavior management techniques to address these behaviors.
11. Provide supervision to ensure safety and security at all times.
12. Maintain student confidentiality according to policies.
13. Use verbal de-escalation skills and appropriate behavioral interventions, including crisis strategies when necessary.
14. Collaborate with team members to determine student and classroom needs, and adjust interventions accordingly.
15. Participate in committees, meetings, supervision, and professional development activities.
16. Model and implement the organization’s core values: Teamwork, Work Ethic, Integrity, Respect, and Leadership.
17. Comply with all policies, rules, protocols, and procedures of The Foundation Schools.
18. Complete other duties as assigned.

BENEFITS

Company-paid insurances, Employee Assistance Program, 403(b) Retirement Plan, Educational Funds Assistance, Paid Holidays and Leave, Health and Dental Insurance options, FSA, supplemental insurances, and other benefits.

REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent; related coursework, associate’s or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum one year of experience in special education or similar settings.
• Bilingual abilities are a plus.

PHYSICAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to use basic office equipment, move supplies, and perform light lifting.
• Maintain professionalism, punctuality, and effective communication skills.
• Ability to manage crisis situations and physically restrain students if necessary.