Special Education Instructional AssistantOld Sturbridge Academy Charter Public School | Sturbridge, MA | Full-TimeOld Sturbridge Academy Charter Public School is seeking a patient, skilled, and student-centered Special Education Instructional Assistant to support students with disabilities. Depending on student need, this role may involve working as a dedicated 1:1 paraprofessional, providing push-in support in general education classrooms, or supporting instruction in our self-contained special education setting always under the direction and supervision of our special education teacher. We are looking for someone who brings genuine commitment to inclusive education, the ability to build trusting relationships with students who have complex needs, and the flexibility to show up differently every day based on what students require. Candidates who reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of our community are strongly encouraged to apply.Who We AreOld Sturbridge Academy (OSA) is a charter public school and part of the Old Sturbridge Inc.
family of organizations, which includes Old Sturbridge Village one of the most visited living history museums in the country. As an EL (Expeditionary Learning) Education school, we believe in hands-on learning that challenges students to grow in three dimensions: mastery of knowledge and skills, character, and high-quality work. Our curriculum is anchored in Learning Expeditions that connect rigorous academics to real-world experiences and our communitys extraordinary resources.Our faculty and staff our Adult Crew show up for students and each other every day. As a Special Education Instructional Assistant, you will be an essential part of how we ensure every student at OSA has genuine access to a rich, ambitious education.What Youll DoThe specific configuration of this role will be determined based on student need and may include one or more of the following settings: 1:1 paraprofessional support, push-in services in general education classrooms, and/or support in the self-contained special education classroom.
All work is carried out under the direction and supervision of the special education teacher.Direct Student SupportProvide individualized support to students with IEPs across academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and daily living skill areas, as directed by the special education teacherImplement accommodations, modifications, and IEP goal-aligned strategies consistently and with fidelitySupport students access to Learning Expeditions and grade-level content, helping them participate meaningfully in OSAs project-based curriculumAssist students in developing independence, self-advocacy, and self-regulation skills with the goal of reducing reliance on adult support over timeProvide 1:1 support to an assigned student as needed, following their individual behavior support plan and IEP goals with consistency and carePush-In and Inclusive Classroom SupportSupport students with IEPs in general education classrooms, working alongside classroom teachers to ensure meaningful inclusionImplement push-in support strategies as directed by the special education teacher, including scaffolding, prompting, and data collectionHelp create and maintain an inclusive classroom environment where students with disabilities are full participants in the learning communityCommunicate observations about student performance and needs to the special education teacher on an ongoing basisSelf-Contained Classroom SupportAssist the special education teacher in delivering instruction in the self-contained classroom settingSupport small group and individual activities, helping students engage with academic content and meet IEP goalsAssist with transitions, routines, and classroom management in the self-contained settingHelp maintain a structured, predictable, and supportive environment that meets the sensory and emotional needs of studentsStudent Wellbeing and CommunityBuild warm, consistent, and trusting relationships with students that support their sense of safety and belongingSupport students during arrival, dismissal, lunch, recess, and other non-instructional timesRespond to behavioral needs using positive, trauma-informed, and restorative approaches consistent with OSAs school culture and individual student plansCommunicate observations about student wellbeing, progress, and concerns promptly to the special education teacher and appropriate school staffData, Documentation, and Professional ResponsibilitiesCollect and record data on student progress toward IEP goals as directed by the special education teacherAssist with preparation of instructional materials and student learning environmentsParticipate in team meetings, IEP meetings as appropriate, professional development, and school-wide eventsMaintain strict confidentiality regarding student records, IEP information, and all matters related to students with disabilitiesPerform other duties as assigned by the special education teacher or school leaderWhat You BringHigh school diploma or G.E.D. required; Associates degree or coursework in Special Education, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field preferredExperience working with students with disabilities in a school, clinical, therapeutic, or community settingFamiliarity with IEPs, accommodation and modification implementation, and special education practicesAbility to support students across a range of disabilities, including learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, emotional/behavioral disabilities, and developmental delaysKnowledge of or willingness to learn positive behavior support strategies, trauma-informed care, and restorative approachesPatience, consistency, and the ability to maintain composure in challenging momentsStrong communication and collaboration skills you take direction well, ask good questions, and keep the right people informedAbility to support students with a wide range of learning and behavioral needs, including English Language Learners who also have IEPsFlexibility and a positive, solution-oriented attitude in a dynamic school environmentCommitment to inclusive education and to the belief that students with disabilities belong fully in our school communityMust successfully pass all required background checks including CORI and fingerprint screeningPosition DetailsJob Type: Full-TimeCompensation: $18$28 per hour, based on experienceSchedule: Monday 7:30AM4:00PM; TuesdayFriday 7:30AM3:15PMWork Location: In personBenefits: 403(b) retirement planHealth, dental, and vision insuranceLife insurancePaid time offHow to ApplyTo apply, submit your resume and optional cover letter at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VXSGCK6 Old Sturbridge Academy Charter Public School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation/gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
