JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for assisting the Special Education Teacher with the educational program of assigned classroom and/or students to facilitate the development and active involvement of the children throughout the school day. Kennedy Children's Center is a year-round school and only works with children ages 3-5 years.

IMPORTANT: This position is 100% on-site and candidates MUST live in the NYC area. All candidates MUST be fully vaccinated before application is submitted.

Only candidates who have already earned a Teacher Assistant certification issued by the State of New York will be considered for this position.

Kennedy Children's Center is looking to hire 1-2 NY State Certified Special Education Teacher Assistants for our Bronx location.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Assist with the implementation of the educational program of assigned classroom and/or students to facilitate the development and active involvement of children in all educational activities.
• Follow the lesson plan as designed by the Teacher to meet the individual special needs of each child they’ve been assigned to.
• Assist with the observation and evaluation of each child as designed by the Teacher and other professionals.
• Assist the Teacher in maintaining a healthy and safe environment for the children, in accordance with all relevant federal, state, local and agency guidelines.
• Participate in the planning and preparation of the classroom, including cleaning and care of equipment and materials, in accordance with all relevant federal, state, local and agency guidelines.
• Assist with the embarking and discharging of children from the buses safely.
• If bi-lingual, translate communications between teachers and families.
• Actively participate in classroom team meetings.
• Perform other relevant duties and functions as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum age of 18 years; H.S Diploma or H.S. equivalency required. Associate degree preferred.
• NYSED certification as a Teacher Assistant required and will be verified in TEACH.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of behavioral management techniques and child development.
• Able to follow directions.
• Able to communicate effectively.
• Supportive, positive and patient attitude.
• Good computer skills including using software programs such as Word, Excel, Boardmaker, Google Meet, or Zoom.
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing needs within the program and classroom
• When working onsite, can consistently supervise children outside while exposed to the sun, rain, and/or weather and temperature changes adhering to the playground rules and gym play zones.
• When working onsite, can stand for extended periods.
• When working onsite, can consistently be able to lift children up to 50 pounds from floor to waist height.
• Consistently able to deal effectively with working closely with children, parents, co-workers, and administration.