Special Education Assistant Teacher

Job Details Job ID: 5778364 Location: Harmony Grove Elementary School, Framingham, Massachusetts Pay: $27.66 per hour Starting Date: Immediately Application Deadline: Posted until filled Job Type: Full-Time Position Summary Assist students with disabilities under the direction of a certified teacher by working in an inclusive setting. Duties include supporting the teacher with daily classroom activities, aiding both students with and without disabilities, ensuring their physical, emotional health and safety, and promoting dignity in all relationships. Provide high expectations for achievement, equal access to instruction, and closure of opportunity gaps among student subgroups. A stipend of $1,400 is available to paraprofessionals working in an Autism classroom, multi‑disabilities classroom, or on a changing team for a student with toileting needs. Certificates, Licenses, Registrations Associate (or higher) degree, or at least two years of post‑secondary education equivalent to at least 48 credit hours from an accredited institution (otherwise must pass the Parapro Test). Training and Experience Experience working with children, especially students with disabilities in Autism, developmental delays, multiple disabilities, learning disabilities, and emotional disabilities, is preferred. Additional specialized training in child development, education, or a related field is desirable. Skills and Ability Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to present information clearly and respond effectively to questions from students, staff, parents, and community members. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional literature, technical procedures, and governmental regulations. Sound reasoning and problem‑solving skills to evaluate information, define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and recommend appropriate courses of action. Capacity to use professional literature, evidence‑based research, and ongoing professional learning to inform instructional and practice decisions. Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the community. Strong organizational and time‑management skills to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects. Commitment to performing all duties in compliance with district requirements, state and federal laws, and Framingham Public Schools policies. Demonstrated cultural proficiency and competence in working with students and families from diverse backgrounds. Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and student records. Professionalism and composure in responding to unpredictable or challenging situations. Proficiency in using technology and willingness to learn new tools; ability to operate a computer and utilize software, including Google Workspace for Education. Willingness to plan, coordinate, and participate in ongoing professional learning, coaching, and staff development. Experience in evaluating student skills, interpreting assessment data, and writing clear, concise reports. Strong collaborative, instructional, coaching, and leadership skills to support student programming. Ability to use data effectively to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes. Knowledge of specialized content areas, relevant laws, and educational procedures. Ability to plan and implement lessons that align with district and school goals. Proficiency in integrating instructional technology to enhance teaching and learning. A proactive, reflective, and solution‑focused approach to supporting student growth and success. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Assist in the instruction and supervision of students, supporting them academically, socially, and behaviorally in inclusive, small group, individual, or separate settings with direction from the classroom teacher and/or special education teacher, service provider, or administrator. Support students with special needs by following provisions specified in their Individual Education Program (IEP). Assist students with test‑taking in administering standardized and non‑standardized tests, curriculum‑based measures, and other assessments. Provide physical management support such as crisis management, restraining students who are at risk of harming themselves or others, and following school/district‑approved restraint procedures (training provided). Attend training and maintain certification in de‑escalation and physical management techniques. Collect data for individual students and report concerns and/or progress information. Escort and supervise students to and from various school facilities and areas. Work collaboratively with special education, general education teachers, and related service staff. Assist in establishing a positive learning environment and respond to the individual needs of students. Assist students with everyday tasks such as eating, mobility, communication, dressing, and toileting, including diapering. Promote independence for students with disabilities. Safeguard confidential information to ensure compliance with FERPA and HIPAA. Perform other general duties as indicated by the teacher, principal, supervisors/directors, or policies of the Framingham School Committee. Physical Working Conditions Move throughout the school building. Remain in stationary positions for extended periods. Occasionally reach with hands and arms, sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Lift at least 20 lb (e.g., books, school supplies). Use hands to manipulate tools and assist students with physical difficulties. Operate computer and office productivity machinery. Read material from a computer monitor, handwritten, or printed matter. Communicate effectively via email, telephone, and in person. Move quickly across even or uneven surfaces as needed. Perform outdoor activities during recess, fire drills, and special events. May encounter bodily fluids, disease, or pathogens. May receive injuries from aggressive students or be required to provide limited personal care. May have to lift or position students, stand, walk, or push a wheelchair for extended periods. Reports To Building Principal and Coordinator of Special Education Evaluation Team. Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Classification Non‑Exempt (Hourly). Terms of Employment Position is covered under Framingham Teachers Association (Unit T) Contract. The District reserves the right to transfer personnel as needed. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or other protected categories. The District complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. The policy applies to all terms and conditions, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, termination, and training. Workplace harassment based on any protected characteristic is prohibited. Contact Information Julie Gelardi, Principal – Harmony Grove Elementary School Email: View email address on click.appcast.io Map Harmony Grove Elementary School, 31 Vial Street, Framingham, MA 01702. #J-18808-Ljbffr Young World Physical Education