Educational Paraprofessional Teacher Assistant

Job Description:

TEACHER ASSISTANT

St. Joseph Catholic School, Danbury

OVERVIEW:

Under the direction of the school principal, the teacher assistant is responsible for supporting the school and the Diocese of Bridgeport in its mission. Under the general guidance of the teacher, the teacher assistant will assist the classroom teacher in the supervision and instruction of students. The teacher assistant is responsible to help provide a well-organized, smoothly functional class environment in which students can take full advantage of the instructional program and available resource materials.

The ideal candidate will be dynamic and energetic with a demonstrated ability to work with little oversight/direction while handling and maintaining confidential information and exercising discretion/discernment in handling related office and school matters at all times. This role requires a high degree of initiative, professionalism, organization, and good communication skills working within a Catholic environment where Catholic values define the words and actions of all.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (180 Days)

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Recognizes and supports the unique Catholic Mission of the school by speaking, acting, and instructing consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learning of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops, professional development, etc.
• Maintains a functional and pleasant learning environment.
• Cooperates with school and diocesan administration; works effectively with all staff members to promote positive relationships.
• At all times demonstrates professional responsibility in enforcing diocesan and school policies and regulations.
• Displays sound judgment in professional dress and professional behavior at all times.
• Punctuality is a must at all times.
• Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and Diocesan Office Administrators as designated by the Superintendent of Schools.
• Assumes responsibility to assist the classroom teacher.
• Assists in supervision and care of students.
• Assists teacher in classroom care-giving routines.
• Assists the teacher in maintaining a safe physical environment.
• Assists with the supervision of students during emergency drills, assemblies, and indoor or outdoor play.
• Assists in classroom set up, clean up, and materials preparation.
• Establishes good rapport with students.
• Assists the teacher to work with individuals and groups of students.
• Utilizes respectful individual and responsive care-giving practices with students.
• Throughout class time actively engages children in meaningful learning activities and experiences.
• Assists with the implementation of health, emergency procedures and first aid.
• Attends meetings and in-services as required.
• Communicates appropriately with parents and staff; refers all parent questions/concerns pertaining to students to the teacher.
• Treats confidential information about students, staff, and school affairs in a professional and ethical manner.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Good communications skills including written, verbal, public speaking skills
• Be available for evening/weekend meetings/events as necessary
• Be able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• High School Graduate or equivalent is required
• Must be 18 years of age PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Practicing Roman Catholic, in good standing
• Demonstrated experience working in a Catholic School
• Associate Degree from an accredited college or university in education or related field preferred

Physical/Mental Requirements: Requires coordination and manual dexterity, normal mental and visual ability; ability to lift as required in a normal office and school building environments.

Required Activities: Walking, sitting standing, bending, reaching, talking, handling, hearing, carrying, keyboarding, etc.

Travel Requirements: Travels to school building and professional meetings as required.

Interested candidates should complete the CT Reap application, include resume and three letters of recommendation.