Teacher Assistant

Looking to make a difference in an innovative and dynamic non-profit agency? UCP of Central Florida unlocks the potential of thousands of children each year at our campuses, pediatric therapy clinics and parent support programs.

Job Summary:

Teacher assistant provides direct support to students with high magnitude maladaptive behaviors in a small classroom setting. The paraprofessional works under the supervision of the classroom teacher, assisting in the delivery of instruction, behavior management, and the implementation of individualized plans. This role plays a vital part in helping students develop academically, socially, and emotionally in a structured, supportive environment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist the classroom teacher in delivering academic and social-emotional lessons, following the teacher's instructions and individualized plans for each student.
• Support students in small group and one-on-one settings, reinforcing the teacher's lessons, modifying materials as needed, and helping students complete assignments.
• Work directly with students to help them understand and follow classroom expectations, routines, and rules.

• Provide individualized attention and support to students, helping to meet IEP goals and behavioral objectives.

• Assist in the implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students, reinforcing desired behaviors and using strategies to help students manage emotional and behavioral challenges.

• Use proactive behavior management techniques, including reinforcement, de-escalation strategies, and visual supports, to maintain a positive and safe classroom environment.
• Provide verbal and physical support to students during behavioral crises, including the use of Safety Care or other approved de-escalation techniques when necessary.

• Supervise students during transitions between activities and throughout the school day, helping to prevent and manage behavioral incidents.

• Build positive relationships with students, creating a safe and trusting environment where they feel supported and understood.

• Help students develop social skills, emotional regulation strategies, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Assist students during moments of frustration or emotional dysregulation, offering calming techniques and redirecting them to appropriate behavior.

• Provide support in designated sensory or calming areas, helping students take breaks as needed to manage their emotions.

• Collaborate closely with the classroom teacher and other staff members to ensure consistent behavior management strategies and instructional approaches.

• Participate in regular team meetings, providing input on student progress, behavior, and any concerns that may arise.
• Communicate with the teacher about student needs, behavioral challenges, and any necessary changes to support plans or routines.

• Maintain professional relationships with students, staff, and families, and support the teacher in communicating student progress to parents and guardians when appropriate.

• Help prepare materials, activities, and visual supports (e.g., visual schedules, behavior charts) that are aligned with the teacher's instructional goals and students' individual needs.

• Assist in organizing and maintaining the classroom environment, ensuring that materials are readily accessible, areas are clean, and sensory tools are available.

• Monitor the classroom during activities, maintaining an organized and structured environment to minimize distractions and support students' focus.

• Assist the teacher in tracking and documenting student progress on behavioral and academic goals, maintaining accurate records of student behaviors, incidents, and achievements.

• Support data collection for Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), documenting specific behaviors, triggers, and the effectiveness of interventions.
• Help record student participation and progress in social-emotional learning activities and other individualized educational programs (IEPs).Perform other duties as assigned.

What UCP Offers

Our mission at UCP is to empower children with and without disabilities to achieve their potential by providing individualized support, education and therapy services in an inclusive environment. When you join UCP of Central Florida you partner with a team that is making a positive impact on the futures of our children. For over 70 years, we have been dedicated to enriching the lives of children of all abilities across Central Florida as 8 campuses: Downtown Orlando, East Orlando (near UCF), Kissimmee, Pine Hills, Lake Mary, and Winter Garden.

UCP of Central Florida offers a competitive benefit package available to all employees Some perks to being a UCP Team Member may include: health insurance (free option after the first year), dental insurance options, free life insurance, paid time off, discounted on-site childcare, 403B/Retirement match, short & long term disability, and support in continuing your education.

Education and Training:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• CPI Trained
• Behavior coursework preferred

Minimum Experience:

• 1 year as a paraprofessional working with students with ASD/behavior challenges.
• Experience collecting behavior data and implementing IEP/BIP
• De-escalation Strategy Trained (Safety Care, CPI, etc.)