Teacher Assistant - Elementary

Young World Physical Education; Wakefield (RI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Young World Physical Education seeks a dedicated Teacher Assistant for the Matunuck Elementary School in Wakefield, Rhode Island. The role involves supporting instructional staff and ensuring an inclusive learning environment.

The ideal candidate will have a High School Diploma, experience with children, and the ability to assist with educational tasks and needs. This full-time position offers the chance to work collaboratively in a dynamic educational setting.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s Degree or higher preferred.
• Must successfully pass the ParaPro Assessment or equivalent educational requirements.
• Experience working with children preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist instructional staff in implementing classroom plans.
• Supervise students during various school activities.
• Provide academic support to students individually or in groups.
• Assist in monitoring student growth and skills.

Skills

Maintain confidentiality

Work with children sensitively

Analyze and communicate effectively

Implement behavior management techniques

Exhibit reliable attendance

Education

High School Diploma or GED; Associate's Degree preferred

Job description

Teacher Assistant - Elementary

South Kingstown Public Schools Matunuck Elementary School – Wakefield, Rhode Island

South Kingstown Schools is an excellent place for educators seeking a supportive, innovative environment where high expectations for all students are upheld. The district seeks a highly qualified Teaching Assistant (TA) to support instructional staff and contribute to a culture of equity and learning excellence.

Job Description

The TA assists the instructional staff in implementing plans and programs related to the classroom or a specialized area. Duties include supervising students, working directly with students individually or in small groups to reinforce academic content, and collaborating with staff to create an educational environment that meets all students’ needs.

Essential Duties

• Support and supervise students during arrival, dismissal, lunch, and recess as assigned by the building principal.
• Organize materials for each group/student; set up learning stations and activity centers; supervise students while working; assist students having difficulty.
• Support students in gaining academic and functional skills under the supervision of the classroom/program teacher(s).
• Work directly with students individually or in small groups to reinforce subjects initially introduced by the teacher.
• Assist in collecting data to monitor student growth and skill development.
• Assist in de‑escalation of students during a crisis situation.
• Assist students with physical tasks and daily living skills such as eating, drinking, dressing, moving, using the bathroom, washing hands, and changing diapers; support students with personal care needs.
• Provide job coaching for students age 14+ who participate in community‑based placements.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the building administrator.
• Participate in district‑offered professional development opportunities.
• Follow and implement Behavior Intervention Plans and Health Care Plans when applicable.
• Reinforce rules of the school and learning environment; acknowledge and encourage appropriate behavior and distinguish inappropriate behavior for the student’s understanding.
• Assist teachers in supervising learning activities, circulating within the classroom, and providing student assistance and learning support.
• Complete Medicaid logs as directed for individual students (as needed).
• Maintain Safety Cares certification.
• Perform duties as assigned by the principal or designee.

Education, Training and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED; Associate’s Degree or higher preferred.

Certificate/License Required

• Successfully pass the ParaPro Assessment, OR
• Complete at least two years of study at an institution of higher education, OR
• Completion of a Teacher Assistant Pre‑Employment Training Program approved by the RI Department of Education (RIDE), or obtain an Associate’s Degree or higher.

Skills and Abilities

• Maintain confidentiality.
• Work with children in a sensitive and effective manner.
• Analyze, communicate, and use interpersonal skills.
• Readily learn assigned duties and adhere to classroom/student procedures.
• Maintain accurate and complete records required by law, district policy, and procedures.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ensure the health and safety of students by following health and safety practices and procedures.
• Operate office/school equipment.
• Work collegially with other professionals.
• Consistently follow established procedures and protocols.
• Implement Safety Cares techniques after appropriate training.
• Implement behavior management techniques after appropriate training.
• Implement job coaching after appropriate training.
• Take initiative and be proactive.
• Understand specific disabilities of the students with whom the employee will be working.
• Exhibit interpersonal skills with students and adults to create and maintain a positive learning environment.
• Perform duties as assigned.

Dispositions

• Willingness to learn and implement instructional methods, strategies, and techniques to assist teachers.
• Patience, courtesy, tact, and good judgment in working with students, teachers, administrators, fellow employees, and parents.
• Effective with diverse populations.
• Employ a variety of teaching styles to respond to diverse learners.
• Use technology tools such as email and educational apps.
• Establish supportive relationships with students, fostering independence.
• Use effective communication with families, students, and colleagues.
• Exhibit reliable attendance, punctuality, dependability, and professional ethics.

Title IX Notice of Nondiscrimination

South Kingstown Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment based on race, color, age, disability, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics or military status. The school district does not tolerate any form of retaliation or bias-based intimidation, threat, or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work. The Title IX Senior Administrator is Raquel Pellerin, South Kingstown Public Schools, 307 Curtis Corner Road, Wakefield, Rhode Island 02879. 401‑360‑1300.

Position Type: Full‑time
Job Categories: Instructional Support > Individual Aide