Teacher Assistant

We are excited to welcome a dedicated and compassionate Teacher Assistant to our educational team! We’re looking for someone who is eager to support teachers in providing a warm, nurturing, and dynamic learning environment, particularly for our preschool students. In this role, you’ll work closely with young children, including those with special needs, to encourage their development through engaging activities and personalized support. As a Teacher Assistant, you'll be instrumental in helping students in our Special Education Program thrive, assisting with implementing goals, behavior support, and promoting their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.  

Support Individual Learning Needs  

• Assist teachers in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities. 

• Provide one-on-one support to students during activities and lessons to help them engage with the curriculum.  

Foster a Positive Learning Environment  

• Create an inclusive and nurturing classroom atmosphere that promotes social, emotional and cognitive development.  

• Encourage positive interactions among students and support their social skills development,  

Assist with Daily Activities  

• Help students with daily routines, including arrival, meals, bathroom use, and transitions between activities.  

• Support students in participating in group activities, encouraging communication and cooperation.  

Behavioral Support  

• Monitor student behavior and implement positive behavior management strategies.  

• Work with teachers to address challenging behaviors and provide consistent support.  

Collaborate with Staff and Families  

• Communicate regularly with teachers and providers to discuss student progress and challenges.  

• Assist in communicating with families about their child’s needs and achievements.  

Maintain a Safe Environment  

• Ensure that classroom materials and equipment are safe and accessible for all students.  

• Supervise students during free play and outdoor activities to ensure safety.  

• Adhere to all health and safety policies and procedures while supervising the children at all times.  

Other Duties  

• Maintain organized student records, including attendance, IEP documentation, and progress reports. 

• Assist in preparing instructional materials and resources for classroom activities.  

• Help with clerical tasks such as photocopying, filing, and organizing classroom supplies.  

• Track and report on student progress and behavior to the teacher and support staff.  

• And any other responsibilities assigned to you by the Director of Education and Educational Coordinator.   

• Experience working with children, preferably in a special education setting.  

• HS Diploma or GED, Minimum of 6 College Credits, NYS Teacher Assistant Certification 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.  

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.  

• Patience, empathy, and a passion for supporting diverse learners.  

Physical Requirements:  

• May need to lift or push wheelchairs of children being served.  

• Physical intervention techniques may be required to aid the children in challenging moments.  

• Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision and ability to focus.

Benefits  

At HeartShare we offer a comprehensive benefit package based on full-time/part-time status. You can  expect:  

• Paid time off (holidays, vacation in accordance with school calendar, sick and personal)  

• Professional development opportunities  

• Team environment  

• Medical and dental benefits  

• Employer-paid life insurance  

• Optional insurance (life, disability, etc.)  

• 403(B) retirement plans  

• Flexible spending account (dependent care, medical, parking, and transit)  

• Employee assistance program  

HeartShare is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). If you need to request accommodation during the  

recruiting process, please reach out to Leaves@heartshare.org.

About HeartShare  

For over 100 years, HeartShare has dedicated itself to improving the lives of people needing special services and support. The HeartShare team, now 2,100 employees and growing, helps individuals develop to their fullest potential and lead meaningful and enriched lives.