Special Education - Instructional Aide

Villa Esperanza Services; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Part time

Job summary

Villa Esperanza Services is seeking an Instructional Aide to support the Lead Teacher in a program serving students with special needs aged 5–22. You will assist with instruction, supervise activities, and help manage behavior in a structured classroom setting.

The role requires a High School Diploma or GED, experience with special needs (preferred), and clearance through fingerprinting, health screening, and badges. Work is Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–2:30 PM, 28–30 hours per week.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED or equivalent is required.
• Experience assisting special needs individuals (SED or behavioral challenges) preferred (1 year).
• Pass DOJ/FBI fingerprint background clearance.
• Complete physical and TB screening.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group instruction as directed by Lead Teacher.
• Assist with instructional activities and supervise students during class, recreation, self-care, and transportation.
• Demonstrate warmth, care, professionalism, and sound judgment with students.
• Carry out duties independently and follow Lead Teacher direction.
• Implement student behavior modification and support plans.
• Maintain accurate student documentation, tracking, and attendance records.
• Assist students with toileting, diapering, and bathroom needs.
• Maintain required medical clearance with the nurse.
• Keep classroom and materials clean, safe, and organized.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and special events.

Skills

1:1 instruction

Small-group instruction

Student supervision

Empathy/warmth

Professionalism

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Equivalent

Job description

the Instructional Aide assists the Lead Teacher with procedures required in the operation of the class, which includes providing assistance with instruction to special needs children. Understand and attend to children who possess special physical, social, or emotional needs. Ensure compliance with all safety standards, regulations, and policies, and provide necessary safety training to students.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group (1:3) instruction as directed by the Lead Teacher
• Assist with instructional activities and supervise students during class, recreation, self-care, and transportation
• Demonstrate warmth, care, professionalism, and sound judgment with students
• Carry out assigned duties independently and follow Lead Teacher direction
• Implement student behavior modification and support plans
• Maintain accurate student documentation, tracking, and attendance records
• Assist students with toileting, diapering, and bathroom needs
• Maintain required medical clearance with the nurse
• Keep classroom and materials clean, safe, and organized
• Maintain appropriate proximity to assigned 1:1 student at all times
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and special events
• Comply with all personnel policies and other duties as assigned

Our school offers an educational program serving students from 5-22 years old (elementary, middle and high school classes) who have special needs associated with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

Compensation: $19.00 per hour

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM (28 - 30 hours per week)

School Calendar Schedule: 180 days + ESY 20 = 201 days; click here to see the 2026 - 2027 school year calendar

• High School Diploma/GED or equivalent.
• Experience assisting special needs individuals (Socially Emotional Disturbance (S.E.D.) and/or Behavioral Challenges); 1 year preferred.
• Satisfactorily pass a background fingerprinting clearance from DOJ/FBI Community Care Licensing/Dept. of Social Services.
• Satisfactorily complete a physical & TB screening