Teacher Assistant, Special Education

OBJECTIVES: Reporting to the Director of Programs, the Teacher Assistant, Special Education will collaborate with lead teachers to create a nurturing and stimulating classroom environment that fosters the academic, social, and emotional growth of our students. This role is responsible for assisting with lesson planning, implementing educational activities, providing individualized support to students, and maintaining a safe and orderly classroom setting. The Special Education Teacher Assistant will play a vital role in supporting the overall educational objectives of the school and promoting a positive learning experience for all students.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Under the supervision of the Teacher, the Assistant Teacher supports the implementation of programs aligned with the philosophy and goals of the Northside Therapeutic Early Childhood Center.
2. Assists in carrying out daily curriculum activities and classroom routines, including providing guidance to substitute staff when needed. In the teacher’s absence, supports classroom structure and coordination of other staff (e.g., aides, 1:1 paraprofessionals).
3. Maintains accurate daily attendance records.
4. Records and assists with required documentation under the teacher’s supervision, including student observations and anecdotal notes.
5. Organizes and maintains student records and classroom documentation.
6. Collaborate with the teacher to gather resources that support the development of engaging learning experiences.
7. Provides support during both large-group and small-group instructional activities.
8. May be assigned to assist in other classrooms at the discretion of the Educational Supervisor or Director.
9. Works collaboratively as a member of the interdisciplinary team and contributes to a positive, team-oriented environment.

SPECIFIC SKILLS:

• Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with teachers and staff.
• Patience, empathy, and ability to support diverse learning and behavioral needs.
• Effective classroom management and ability to implement behavior intervention plans.
• Ability to support and motivate students’ academic and social-emotional growth.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and supervisory skills, with attention to confidentiality and detail.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Excellent work ethic
• Commitment to working in a mission-driven organization.
• Demonstrated personal ethics and values.
• Cross-team collaboration and cooperation
• Team player who works well with a diverse group of people

QUALIFICATIONS:

• An Associate’s or higher degree in Education or related field and/ or previous experience in Early Childhood or Special Education is highly preferred.
• Teacher Assistant Certification or the willingness to attain Certification is required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong sense of patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for working with children.
• Solid understanding of child development principles and educational best practices.
• Ability to adapt instruction and respond to the diverse needs of students.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement. Salary and benefits are determined in accordance with the union contract and applicable pay scales.

Salary: $34,860 - $41,658.

ABOUT NORTHSIDE

Northside Center for Child Development serves more than 5,500 children and families across New York City each year through high-quality, outcome-driven behavioral health, early childhood education, and enrichment services. With over $34 million in annual funding, Northside provides the comprehensive support children and families need to overcome adversity, build resilience, and pursue their dreams.

Founded in 1946 in Harlem, Northside has been a cornerstone of the community for eight decades, leading the way in integrating education and mental health to support children’s development. Several of Northside’s innovative programs were the first of their kind in Harlem, setting standards of care that continue to influence social service agencies throughout the United States today.

Northside’s founders, Drs. Kenneth B. and Mamie Phipps Clark, were renowned, pioneering psychologists whose groundbreaking research was instrumental in the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education landmark Supreme Court decision that declared school segregation unconstitutional. Their belief in the worth, dignity, and potential of every child continues to guide Northside’s mission and inspire its work today. Northside is driven by its vision and principle, “Each Child…First Chance.”

For more information on Northside Center for Child Development, please visit www.northsidecenter.org.