Special Education Instructional Assistant

Para Los Niños; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Special Education Instructional Assistant to support students with diverse learning needs. This role involves collaborating with teachers to create inclusive lesson plans, assisting with behavior management, and ensuring a positive learning environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in special education, excellent communication skills, and the ability to foster trust with students and families. Join a mission-driven organization committed to breaking the cycle of poverty and helping children thrive in their educational journey.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 60 semester units of college education; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• At least three years working with children or one year in Special Education.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in developing lesson plans tailored to student needs.
• Support students during field trips and in implementing IEP goals.

Skills

De-escalation Skills

Emotional Regulation Support

Behavior Management

Collaboration with Staff and Families

Education

60 Semester Units of College Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

First-Aid/CPR Certification

Job description

Special Education Instructional Assistant

Charter Middle School, 835 Stanford Avenue, Los Angeles, California, United States of America Req #401

Thursday, April 17, 2025

About PLN

Founded on Skid Row in 1980, Para Los Niños provides education and wraparound support, serving over 10,000 children, youth, and families annually in underserved areas of Los Angeles. PLN fosters pathways to success through excellence in education, family support, and comprehensive social-emotional and community-based services.

Our model includes early education, TK-8th grade education, youth workforce services, and family and community services, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and help children and youth thrive.

Position Overview

The Special Education Assistant supports students with diverse learning needs in an inclusive setting under the supervision of the Special Education Manager. This role involves assisting General Education and Resource Specialist Teachers, fostering an inclusive, positive, and productive learning environment by supporting students' educational, behavioral, emotional, and physical needs.

Duties

1. Assist teachers in developing and providing feedback on lesson plans tailored to student needs.
2. Help implement classroom modifications and adaptations as recommended.
3. Support the implementation of innovative content-focused teaching methods.
4. Assist with demonstrations, electronic equipment, and presentation of materials.
5. Support students in using instructional materials and equipment.
6. Maintain an environment conducive to learning and encourage appropriate behavior.
7. Assist with behavior management and support plan implementation.
8. Participate in data collection for behavior support plans.
9. Support students during field trips and in implementing IEP goals.
10. Assist students with lifting, carrying, personal hygiene, mobility, and medical needs, including toileting and feeding as needed.
11. Implement behavior management plans and participate in professional development.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics

• Minimum of 60 semester units of college education; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• At least three years working with children or one year in Special Education.
• Skilled in de-escalation and supporting emotional regulation.
• Knowledge of physical and emotional needs of children and special education students.
• Ability to gain students’ confidence and work harmoniously with staff and families.
• Calmness in emergencies, understanding of crisis cycles, and following instructions.
• Valid First-Aid/CPR certification and TB clearance.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform essential functions, including sitting, walking, standing, bending, lifting up to 25 pounds, and other physical activities. Reasonable accommodations may be provided.

• Approximately 50% sitting; frequent walking, standing, and bending.
• Good vision, hearing, and speech essential.
• TB test and immunization verification required.

Additional Expectations

Demonstrate commitment to PLN’s mission, high standards, continuous learning, data-driven decision making, teamwork, professionalism, and respectful relationships with families and children.

Para Los Niños is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on various protected characteristics.