Teacher Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT LA CHEIM

La Cheim has been providing a robust continuum of care for nearly 50 years to help children and adults who were previously unreachable. Our non-public school, community mental health center, therapeutic behavioral services program, and Short-Term Residential Treatment Program offer educational and mental health services throughout Alameda and Contra Costa County. 

Our team is made up of teachers, art therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, psychologists, RNs, social workers, MFTs, and mentors who are known for their caliber and compassion. They create life-changing experiences for those they serve. All La Cheim programs embrace and apply a Trauma-Informed approach to addressing emotional and behavioral issues.

By joining La Cheim you will be part of a supportive community serving an inspiration mission. You will enjoy rich benefits, valuable training and wellness opportunities, close support, and room to grow. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Behavioral and Educational Support Specialist (AKA Teacher Assistant) provides comprehensive support to students by addressing both their behavioral and academic needs. This role involves working closely with students, teachers, and other school staff to enhance the learning environment by managing behavioral challenges while assisting students with academic tasks. The specialist aims to foster a positive and inclusive educational experience by promoting behavioral growth, academic success, and social-emotional development.

Working Conditions

• This position is typically performed within a school environment, working closely with students in classrooms and during school activities.
• The role may require flexibility and adaptability to address different students' needs and varying academic or behavioral challenges.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

1. High school diploma required; Associate degree or coursework in education, psychology, special education, or a related field is preferred.
2. Previous experience working with students in an educational setting is highly preferred. Experience supporting students with behavioral challenges and academic support is a plus.
3. Must have a valid California Driver License and car insurance
4. Must have reliable transportation to ensure consistent and timely attendance.
5. Intermediate-level skills in MS Office (including Excel, Word, Microsoft TEAMS, and Outlook).
6. Must be able to pass all required tests and clearances (Live Scan (DOJ, FBI, Guardian) TB test, etc.)

Skills:

1. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, staff, and families.
2. Ability to manage classroom behaviors and de-escalate difficult situations in a calm and effective manner.
3. Knowledge of basic academic support strategies and behavioral management techniques.
4. Patience, empathy, and the ability to motivate and engage students.

Certifications (Preferred but not required):

1. Behavioral intervention training (e.g., PBIS, CPI, or ABA).
2. First Aid/CPR certification may be required, depending on the school’s policies.

PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES

1. Functions as a “team player,” prioritizing the organization’s best interests
2. Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement and ways to contribute
3. Exhibits creativity, adaptability, openness, and a high level of professionalism
4. Possesses strong organizational and interpersonal skills
5. Maintains confidentiality with discretion
6. Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills
7. Works effectively independently and pays close attention to detail
8. Collaborates well with other agency staff
9. Outstanding organizational and time management abilities.
10. Exhibit a strong professional commitment and represent La Cheim effectively while engaging with the community.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

1. The role may involve supporting students physically in some situations, such as helping them stay engaged in class or guiding them to a safe space during behavioral incidents.
2. Must be able to stand, walk, and interact with students in and out of a classroom setting for extended periods.
3. Must be able to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day during school field trips and extended travel.

The following is the extent of the specific activity required for this position:

1. Stairs – climbing stairs up to 50-100 – up to 2-4 hours, not continuously.
2. Sitting – up to 2 hours, not continuously; standing – up to 4 hours, not continuously
3. Walking – up to 2 hours, not continuously; bending over – up to 1 hour, not continuously.
4. Crawling – up to 0 hours; climbing – up to 0 hours, reaching overhead – up to a few minutes.
5. Crouching – up to ½ hour, not continuously; kneeling – up to a few minutes
6. Balancing – up to 0 hours; pushing or pulling – up to a few minutes.
7. Lifting or carrying – 25 pounds or less; repetitive use of feet – up to 0 hours
8. Repetitive use of hands – up to 0 hours
9. Grasping – with one or both, simple and firm, for up to 1 hour, not continuously
10. Fine dexterity - either hand up to 1 hour, not continuously Auditory and visual acuity – 8 hours within normal limits and maybe with glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids.
11. Driving cars and vans; Exposure to uneven concrete and blacktop
12. Exposure to normal dust, heat, and noise
13. Exposure to emotionally disturbed students who may be physically and verbally violent and require safe physical management.
14. Frequent exposure to office equipment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

1. Behavioral Support:
   1. Implement and support behavior intervention strategies to help students improve their behavior and emotional regulation.
   2. Work directly with students exhibiting challenging behaviors, providing positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques.
   3. Assist in the development and implementation of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students with specific behavioral needs.
   4. Observe and document student behaviors, identifying triggers and progress, and report findings to teachers and behavioral teams.
   5. Work with teachers to create a structured and supportive classroom environment that minimizes disruptions.
2. Academic Support:
   1. Assist students in completing classroom assignments and understanding academic content across subjects.
   2. Help students develop study skills, organizational strategies, and time management techniques to support academic success.
   3. Work with students to improve academic performance by providing instructional support, encouragement, and guidance in a variety of subjects.
   4. Collaborate with teachers to identify students who need additional academic support and help implement tailored strategies.
3. Collaboration and Communication:
   1. Collaborate with teachers, counselors, and school staff to monitor student progress and adjust support plans as necessary.
   2. Attend team meetings to discuss individual student needs and ensure that behavioral and academic goals are aligned.
   3. Communicate effectively with students, staff, and families to ensure coordinated support for the student’s academic and behavioral growth.
4. Social-Emotional Support:
   1. Help students build essential social and emotional skills, such as conflict resolution, self-regulation, and effective communication.
   2. Provide support for students experiencing personal challenges or difficulties in adapting to school life.
   3. Offer guidance in navigating peer interactions and building positive relationships with classmates and teachers.
5. Crisis Management:
   1. Assist in managing behavioral crises in the classroom by providing appropriate interventions and ensuring student safety.
   2. Follow crisis intervention protocols when needed, ensuring that all actions are documented and reported appropriately.
6. Record Keeping and Documentation:
   1. Maintain accurate records of student progress, behavioral interventions, and academic assistance.
   2. Document student behaviors, academic achievements, and any challenges faced, sharing relevant information with the educational team.
   3. Complete and document daily Medi-Cal progress notes to track services provided to youth, ensuring compliance with billing and electronic health record requirements.
   4. Regularly checks email and uses a personal cell phone to communicate effectively with the team.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Complete all required trainings as assigned
2. Attend all mandatory meetings
3. Meet regularly for individual oversight with supervisor(s)
4. Other duties may be required as La Cheim continues its development. Employees are expected to be flexible and responsive to changes in the scope of duties.
5. Understand and embody La Cheim's philosophy, organizational culture, and communication channels by practicing a collaborative approach.
6. May involve occasional errands, such as shopping for supplies, picking up items from local stores, or other off-site tasks in company van.
7. Complete any additional tasks assigned by the Supervisor, Department Head, and/or CEO