School Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

N e w Haven Youth & Family Services is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering at-risk youth and families through education, mental health, and life skills programs. Our vision is to set the standard of care for youth and families by restoring hope, building resilience, and creating opportunities for every young person to reach their full potential.

The Teaching Assistant is responsible for ensuring and promoting a safe, positive, and therapeutic learning environment. The role involves caring for, supervising, counseling, and managing crises and emergencies among students. The Teaching Assistant will help overseeing program functions and implementing Individualized Treatment Plans (ITPs) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Responsibilities:

• Maintain a therapeutic environment through supervision, positive discipline, behavior modification, crisis intervention, and life skills instruction.
• Observe and respond to behavioral issues while encouraging social and life skills development.
• Prepare daily program schedules and implement treatment plans as directed.
• Provide educational support aligned with students’ Individualized Education Programs.
• Support teachers by monitoring student progress, correcting errors, fostering motivation, engaging students in productive activities, and preparing necessary materials.
• Document student behavior using the New Haven protocol and reports.
• Operate company vehicles safely, maintain cleanliness, and report maintenance concerns.
• Administer medications and follow medically-related protocols according to policy.
• Attend staff trainings and meetings to maintain required skills and certifications.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

  Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required 
• Education in a behavioral field and/or experience working with similar youth
• Sub-credential or ability to pass CBEST and apply for credential is preferred
• Competency in Pro-ACT, Life Space Crisis Intervention (LSCI), and emergency procedures
• Knowledge and understanding of Turn-Around Teacher/Counselor principles and practices
• Ability to interact effectively with others and follow supervisor directions
• Ability to accept constructive feedback and contribute to a harassment-free and non-discriminatory environment
• Ability to work under stress without creating danger or disruption
• Reliable attendance and punctuality

New Haven Youth and Family Services is an EOE F/M/Disabled/Vet