SPED Instructional Aide

Oakland School For The Arts; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Commuter benefits

Employee assistance program

Retirement plans with matching

Job summary

Oakland School for the Arts seeks a dedicated and compassionate full-time Instructional Aide to join our SPED team. You’ll work with case managers, general education teachers, and the broader SPED team to support students with diverse learning needs, helping them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in an inclusive environment.

Responsibilities include providing small-group and one-on-one instruction aligned with IEPs, reinforcing lessons, supporting behavior plans, maintaining

Qualifications

• General understanding of academic subjects including math, reading, science, and social studies.
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Basic knowledge of special education practices and student support strategies.
• Proficiency with computers and educational technology tools.

Responsibilities

• Support the academic and behavioral success of students with disabilities in both general education and special education classrooms.
• Provide small-group and one-on-one instruction aligned with student learning goals and IEPs.
• Reinforce classroom lessons and help students develop study skills, organization, and self-advocacy.
• Implement behavior support plans and assist in promoting positive classroom behavior.
• Maintain accurate records and data to monitor student progress.
• Support student discipline, engagement, and social-emotional development.
• Perform clerical and administrative tasks, including data entry and classroom organization.
• Monitor appropriate use of technology and adherence to school policies.
• Maintain a safe,Inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Collaborate regularly with teachers, specialists, and administrators to ensure student needs are met.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education.

Skills

Academic subjects

Communication skills

Special education basics

Educational technology

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Oakland, CA 94612
Salary Range: $19.39 - $36.04 Hourly
POSITION: Instructional Aide
School Year: 2025-2026

About Oakland School for the Arts

Oakland School for the Arts (OSA) is a vibrant creative community rooted in Oakland’s rich cultural landscape. Serving 800 students in grades 6–12, OSA blends rigorous academics with artistic excellence, celebrating the unique voices and talents of each student. Diverse experiences make our teams stronger and help us better serve our equally diverse student population. We encourage all candidates interested in this opportunity, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), as well as candidates from historically underrepresented communities, to apply. All voices and perspectives matter here.

Mission & Vision

At OSA, we believe that education and the arts are powerful tools for transformation. Our mission is to prepare graduates for college and career through innovative arts education, inspiring them to shape the world with their unique voices. Our vision is generations of creative thinkers, authentic leaders, and problem‑solvers who bring the essential value of the arts to every community.

The Role

Oakland School for the Arts seeks a dedicated and compassionate full‑time (1.00FTE) Instructional Aide to join our team. In this role, you’ll work closely with special education case managers, general education teachers, and the broader SPED team to support students with diverse learning needs. Your work will help ensure that every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in an inclusive learning environment. If you’re passionate about education, teamwork, and making a difference in students’ lives, this role offers a meaningful opportunity to grow and contribute in a dynamic school community.

What You’ll Do

• Support the academic and behavioral success of students with disabilities in both general education and special education classrooms.
• Provide small‑group and one‑on‑one instruction aligned with student learning goals and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Reinforce classroom lessons and help students develop study skills, organization, and self‑advocacy.
• Implement behavior support plans and assist in promoting positive classroom behavior.
• Maintain accurate records and data to monitor student progress.
• Support student discipline, engagement, and social‑emotional development.
• Perform clerical and administrative tasks, including data entry and classroom organization.
• Monitor appropriate use of technology and adherence to school policies.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Collaborate regularly with teachers, specialists, and administrators to ensure student needs are met.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking someone who is compassionate, dependable, and deeply committed to student success. If you don’t meet every qualification but feel inspired by this work, we encourage you to apply.

Experience & Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
• Experience working with middle or high school students in instructional, tutoring, or mentoring roles.

Skills & Knowledge

• General understanding of academic subjects including math, reading, science, and social studies.
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Basic knowledge of special education practices and student support strategies.
• Proficiency with computers and educational technology tools.

Qualities

• Collaborative and team‑oriented with a growth mindset.
• Patient, flexible, and skilled at fostering positive relationships with students.
• Committed to equity and inclusive education.

Compensation & Benefits

The hourly rate for this position is $19.39 to $36.04, determined according to OSA’s non‑certificated salary scale and commensurate with the candidate’s experience, education, and credentials. OSA provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; commuter benefits; an employee assistance program; and retirement plans with competitive employer matching. This is a full‑time, non‑exempt position offered under a 10‑month contract (August2025 through May2026).

Commitment to Equity

OSA is committed to creating a workplace where all people feel valued, respected, and empowered. We embrace diversity in all its forms and encourage candidates from underrepresented communities to apply. We do not discriminate in any program, activity, or employment decision on the basis of age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, disability, medical information, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or political affiliation.