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. 

Kennedy Children's Center is hiring NY State Certified Special Education Teacher Assistants for our Manhattan location.

IMPORTANT: 

-This position is 100% on-site and candidates MUST live in the NYC area at the time application is submitted.

-Candidates MUST have a valid Teacher Assistant certification issued by the State of New York at the time their application is submitted. Teacher Assistant certification will be verified in TEACH before candidates are invited to schedule a phone interview.

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. This will be verified in TEACH before candidates are contacted for a phone interview.

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.