Program Assistant

JOB TITLE                   Program Assistant 

LOCATION                   Onsite, Plano, TX 

HOURS                         Full Time, Permanent 

REPORTS TO               Life-Long Learning Program Manager or Vocational Program Manager

LEVEL                           Non-exempt 

SALARY                        Min: $15.14/hr (salary will increase based on experience and degrees/certifications)

Who we are

My Possibilities (MP) is an innovative, mission-driven organization that serves adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), also known as Hugely Important People (HIPsters). We envision a world of inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for everyone. We believe people can do meaningful work, love their jobs, and enjoy life. If you are looking for a daily challenge, to make a huge impact, and to help define the future of disability inclusion, let’s talk! 

We provide benefits and support to help you rest easy and focus on things that matter. Some of our perks include: 

• Generous paid time off 
• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
• Company-sponsored retirement
• Learning and development support 

Who we want

The Education Program is the heartbeat of My Possibilities. As a program assistant you would have the honour and privilege to directly support our HIPsters and make everyday count for them. Program assistants step in to support the Instructors In teaching lessons, community outings and substitute classes when needed. Success factors Include, compassion for different abilities/disabilities, flexibility In and out of the classroom, ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment and a passion for serving our mission. HIPsters first in all decision-making, strong communication skills to HIPsters and staff as well as a desire for fun will make you a great fit for this role. 

 How you can add value

This role Is the key to success as an organization. Through supporting our HIPsters and Instructors, you are giving opportunities for this often-overlooked population to experience the joy in continuing to learn. Teaching skills as well as enriching the lives of our HIPsters and advocating for their success, makes this role extremely valuable. You are the orchestrator of lifelong memories and joyful experiences that will stay with our HIPsters forever. 

Essential Functions:

• Prepare lesson materials, visual board displays, exhibits, equipment, and demonstrations.
• Assist HIPsters individually or in small groups to help them master assignments and to reinforce learning concepts presented by instructors.  
• Supervise HIPsters in classrooms, halls, cafeteria, and gymnasium, or on community based instructional opportunities. 
• Assist with teaching classes based on varied levels of cognition and provide accommodations to serve diverse student needs. 
• Assist with writing lesson plans that meet the requirements as outlined by the Educational Framework. 
• Assist with facilitation and transportation of community-based instruction outings.
• Assist with daily attendance tracking, documentation of team goals and 10-15 notes on a daily/weekly/monthly basis. 
• Assist with general program and lunch supervision.  
• Maintain quality educational records. 
• Complete additional tasks assigned by the direct supervisor, Education Program Manager, and/or the Director of Programs. 
• Enforce administration policies and rules governing HIPsters.
• Design and maintain an active classroom environment conducive to student learning and success. 
• Assist instructors in maintaining a clean classroom/work environment.

Competencies (Knowledge, skills, and abilities):

• Experience working with adults with special needs a plus.
• Experience working with behaviors is a plus. 
• Must have experience in using Microsoft applications and Google Drive. 
• Understands instruction methods including curriculum-base instruction.

Education/Experience: 

• High school diploma/GED required (Associate degree, preferred)
• 2 years’ experience as a teaching assistant or paraprofessional, preferred 

Specific Skills: 

• Current driver’s license, acceptable driving record and valid car insurance required. 
• Must be able to clear a background check with no related offenses jeopardizing the integrity of our program. 
• Must be able to get certified in CPR/First Aid and nonviolent crisis intervention within state-mandated timelines

Success factors:

• The successful candidate must be able to work collaboratively with the Program Coordinator(s) and with other instructors.
• Compassionate attitude 
• Exceptional attention to details. 
• Must adhere to all confidentiality guidelines of our HIPsters and their families. 
• As a role model and mentor to our HIPsters, strive to always maintain professional demeanor.
• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a commitment to and a passion for My Possibilities’ mission. 

Supervisory responsibilities: 

Working conditions: 

• This position will be required to: 
• Sit, stand, and bend throughout the day 
• Occasionally lift up to 75lbs. 
• Clean up body fluids to maintain safety and dignity of HIPsters

All potential employees must pass a background check and drug screen test. 

Belonging and Accommodation Statement 

My Possibilities is committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe diversity of ideas fosters innovation and engagement. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation during the application and recruiting process, please get in touch with us.

Equal Opportunity Employer 

My Possibilities is committed to creating a diverse environment and is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.