Kindergarten Teaching Assistant

Kindergarten Teaching AssistantThe Kindergarten Teaching Assistant works under the guidance and alongside the classroom teacher and assists in the instruction and supervision of students. They will also assist the teacher in achieving educational objectives by working with individual students or small groups, assisting students by modeling the necessary skills to perform academic, social, and behavioral tasks, modeling appropriate behaviors and interactions with students and staff. The teaching assistant supports the teacher in providing a well-organized, smoothly functioning class environment that is culturally proficient and responsive to each student's diverse needs.Required QualificationsHigh School diploma and college level courses in early child development, special education, or educationBachelor's degree strongly preferredTeaching certificate preferredInstructional experience in elementary public school setting preferredDesired QualificationsDemonstrated knowledge and application of effective teaching assistant principles, practices and trendsAbility to establish and maintain productive working relationships with supervising teacher, students, staff, families and school communityAbility to perform essential job duties at a high levelAbility to work on multiple tasks and prioritize appropriatelyAbility to recognize areas of concern relating to student issues and propose or recommend appropriate solutions to problemsAbility to communicate effectivelyJob FunctionsExecutes instructional activities with individual students or small groups of students following teacher direction and demonstrationProvides assistance to students during special classes (art, music, etc.), as neededAssists general education and special education studentsAssists with and implements positive behavior support plans designed by teacher and/or other school personnelAssists and monitors student use of instructional and other equipmentServes as a source of information and help to any substitute teacher assigned in the absence of the regular teacherMaintains the same high level of ethical behavior and confidentiality of information about students as is expected of the classroom teachersAssists students leaving and entering transportation vehicles, accompanies students to and from classroomsAssists with supervision of students during emergency drillsAssists students with activities of daily living such as eating, grooming, bathing, and hygiene related to toiletingObserves and intervenes to redirect inappropriate behaviorAssists, monitors, and guides the student to focus on learning, participate in activities, and complete tasksModels conversation, manners, clean-up activities, listening, and everyday interactions for the purpose of demonstrating appropriate pro-social skills in a culturally responsive mannerAttends meetings and in-service presentations as assigned for the purpose of acquiring and/or conveying information relative to job functionsMay be expected to provide substitute educator servicesMay be expected to attend trainings related to positionConsistent, reliable and punctual attendance is essential for supervision and instruction of the studentsResponsible for implementing "other job-related duties" as neededPhysical RequirementsAbility to operate computer, printer, telephone, copier, facsimile machine, and all other standard office equipmentAbility to sit or stand for extended periods of timeSufficient mobility to navigate within a large or small school buildingRegularly required to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 25 poundsIn compliance with state and federal laws, Newton Public Schools is committed to equity, anti-racism and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual's qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute.