Instructional Assistant II Position

About Spectrum Center Schools and Programs

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is a dynamic organization with a social mission to offer hope. We are seeking an Instructional Assistant II to join our award-winning team and perform meaningful work in a culture that welcomes innovation, encourages creative expression, and offers limitless potential for personal and professional satisfaction.

If you thrive in a fast-paced, goal-oriented, outcome-driven environment, seek a career with genuine purpose, and possess a problem-solving mindset, a sense of humor, and a stellar work ethic – we want to hear from you.

As an Instructional Assistant II, you will provide individualized supervision and instruction to assigned students and additional support to the core classroom staff. Working with student(s) to implement their Individualized Education Programs (IEP), you will utilize group and individual instruction in the classroom and community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement curriculum (including all on-site and community-based instruction) and behavioral intervention strategies consistent with the letter and intent of the IEP/ITP (Individual Transition Plan)/PBIP (Positive Behavior Intervention Plan) to meet each student's goals and objectives.
• Consult with supervisor on the progress of students and the implementation of the IEP/ITP/PBIP, and assist in transition plans for integrating the student back to a public school placement (mainstreaming/inclusion) or to an adult program.
• Follow the classroom schedule which addresses each student's IEP/ITP goals including community and vocational goals, group instruction, any designated instructional services (DIS) and/or schedule revisions.
• Complete accurate and timely documentation on student's behavior as outlined by school procedures; report observations to relevant staff and make recommendations based on observations.
• Assist in preparation of other behavioral reports and daily activities log as required, and maintain confidentiality of student information and records at all times.
• Participate in the data collection process by collecting, recording, and maintaining data required by student programs, classroom records, and data computer systems as assigned by supervisor; and provide input for the development of Functional Analyses of Behavior and Positive Behavior Intervention Plans.
• Perform job coaching duties as assigned, by assisting in the training of students, on campus or at community job sites in appropriate work behavior and specific employment skills. Keep supervisor informed of issues regarding student's vocational skills and/or placement.
• Provide for the basic physical needs of students as needed (e.g., toileting and diapering, ensuring students receive their medications, assisting with feeding students, assisting with hygiene, etc.).
• Maintain safety and security of the facility through close observation and monitoring of the students, maintaining optimal physical proximity, remaining alert at all times, and using analytical forethought to anticipate potentially volatile or unsafe situations to proactively intervene.
• Comply with all company policies/procedures and regulatory requirements, and report any known or suspected violations to his/her supervisor or through other means identified in company policy.
• Provide appropriate crisis intervention as necessary using the least restrictive method by anticipating and responding quickly to escalating behaviors, utilizing appropriate de-escalation techniques to diffuse the situation, correctly prioritizing safety concerns, following proper physical restraint techniques, and displaying neutral emotions.
• Meet school and regulatory training requirements by attending all mandatory meetings and training sessions as required.
• Assure cleanliness and orderliness of the classroom by assisting in cleaning, filing, and preparing materials and proactively assisting in all security, maintenance, and safety functions as required for the overall facility.
• Participate as a team member and promote a positive work environment by demonstrating cooperation, compromise, appropriate expression of opinion, and by treating others with consideration, courtesy, and respect.
• Assist with other daily classroom functions and special assignments as directed; including, but not limited to, substitute teaching.
• Act as the primary instructor, supervisor, and mentor to students and staff when the teacher is absent, including credential communication coverage with families and management of classroom systems as needed.
• Provide classroom orientation for new staff per agency guidelines and as directed by the teacher.
• Assist with the planning and preparation of educational materials and activities and maintain individual student data binders and communication devices/books.
• Assist the teacher in managing the classroom budget, records, and environment.
• Serve as an aide (also known as a 'rider') to provide supervision and management of student behavior during transportation routes in Spectrum-owned vehicles (at applicable campuses).
• Provide (at applicable campuses) transportation for students by driving a Spectrum-owned vehicle with students who require transportation to and/or from school. This responsibility requires an employee-provided DMV driving record report.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in education or a closely related field of study.
• Hold currently or have the ability to obtain an 'Emergency 30 Day Sub Permit' within 90 days of starting employment.
• Hold currently or have the ability to obtain a valid CA state driver's license.
• Willingness and ability to drive a company van and transport students within the community.
• Minimum 3 years prior experience working with children in an education and/or classroom setting.
• Prior experience working with children with autism, developmental disabilities, and/or challenging behaviors in a special education program setting preferred.
• Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in an emergency situation and make independent decisions.
• Solid motivational skills and willingness to be flexible and adapt to changing priorities and new initiatives.
• Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making ability.
• Well-versed in the use of relevant technology, including experience with computers, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.