Teacher Assistant

Job DetailsDescription 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. Primary Responsibilities and Essential Functions of Position:  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. Qualifications 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:  Rewarding Work in a team environment. Paid vacation, sick, personal days, and holidays. 403(B) retirement plans with employer contribution. Health, dental, vision and life insurance. Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Flexible spending account (Dependent Care, Medical, Parking, and Transit). Employee Appreciation Programs and Events. Tuition Assistance Program. Professional Development opportunities. Wellhub Discount Verizon Wireless Discount. BJs Membership discount. Discounts on Broadway tickets, movie tickets, theme parks, sporting events, gift certificates & more HeartShare is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). If you need to request accommodation during the recruiting process, please reach out to . About HeartShare Who WE ARE: For over one hundred 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. To learn more about HeartShare, please visit our website at or Follow us on HeartShare Human Services of New York | Homepage HeartShare Human Services of New York nurtures and empowers children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.