Elementary Instructional Assistant (FOCUS)

Westwood Public Schools

ESY - Elementary Instructional Assistant (FOCUS)

July 6, 2026 - August 13, 2026

Hours: 8:30am - 2:30pm, M-Th

The Westwood Public Schools is committed to active equality-based, anti-racist education and the creation of a welcoming and inclusive school community in partnership with parents and community members.

NATURE AND SCOPE

To assist the special education teacher in maintaining appropriate instructional activities and environments as described in the individual educational plan in order that students may learn effectively.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work under teacher supervision with students to support learning of materials or skills in both pull out and in-class settings.
• Support students acquisition of skill with equipment, technology or other instructional materials as assigned by the teacher.
• Guide independent study, enrichment work and remedial work supervised and assigned by the teacher.
• Administer and monitor testing as the teacher directs (i.e. testing accommodations, extended time) for local and state mandated testing.
• Assist the teacher in developing specialized strategies for reinforcing material or skills based on the special education students' individual needs, interests and ability.
• Implement positive behavioral support plans in both pull out and inclusive settings.
• Maintain data regarding student progress on educational objectives and share this information with supervising teacher on an as needed basis.
• Communicate effectively with students, staff and community members as directed by supervising teacher.
• Other functions as determined by supervisor.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Completion of a high school diploma required. Bachelor's degree and previous successful work with students highly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITY, AND SKILL

• Ability to work under the supervision of the teacher and communicate effectively if a question or problem arises.
• Ability to form and maintain positive relationships with children who may present with challenging behavior and or significant learning needs.
• Strong organizational abilities to manage supporting multiple students in a variety of settings throughout the day.
• Excellent communication skills with multiple communities (students, staff and parents).

PERSONAL QUALITIES

• Demonstrates caring and concern for all students.
• Communicates clearly and asks for assistance when needed.
• Able to problem solve challenging situations with support from teacher and other staff.
• Ongoing professional demeanor in all aspects of communication and work with others.

JOB ENVIRONMENT

Work takes place in a fast paced school environment including offices, auditorium, gym, lunchroom and recess/hallways.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Requires sufficient vision to read printed documents and view detail on a computer screen.
• Requires frequent standing, walking, sitting, bending, and reaching as well as carrying and occasionally lifting up to 30 lbs.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The Westwood Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.