Teacher Assistant at The Creekside School

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionTeaching Assistant Job DescriptionThe Creekside School is a growing, mission-driven educational program serving students with specialized learning needs. We are seeking passionate and collaborative employees to join our multidisciplinary team and support students in developing the skills they need for greater independence, regulation, and participation in school and daily life. The ideal candidate brings strong clinical skills, experience working with students with autism and developmental disabilities, and a collaborative, student-centered approach.The Creekside School offers a supportive work environment, meaningful collaboration, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on students and families through high-quality, individualized care. Assist the Special Educator in providing an exemplary special education program to assigned students and foster a school-wide environment that supports learning and development. Work collaboratively with the Special Educator, Related Services Providers, and classroom team to maintain a safe, positive, and supportive learning environment. Assist in implementing educational programs that support students in meeting IEP goals, developing independence, self-regulation, engagement, social relationships, and emotional well-being.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesImplement Individual Education Plans (IEPs), lesson plans, and related service plans under direction of the Special Educator and Related Services Providers.Follow IEP recommendations, Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), sensory integration plans, and communication plans consistently.Collect accurate data on IEP goals and input notes promptly.Create student and classroom materials as needed.Support students in community-based education while maintaining safety standards.Transport students to community locations following all traffic laws.Prepare the classroom for the next day and ensure materials are ready before student arrival.Student SupportSupport students’ social-emotional development and well-being.Use research-supported techniques for individuals on the autism spectrum.Encourage independent skill development using least-restrictive prompts.Build positive rapport with each student through engagement and appropriate social interaction.Use restrictive interventions (restraint, seclusion, etc.) only as a last resort or per approved IEP plans. Team CollaborationCollect and share detailed observation data for IEP and services planning.Participate in meetings, trainings, and professional development.Communicate effectively with staff, parents, administrators, and community partners.Help maintain supplies and equipment in good condition. ComplianceMaintain confidentiality of all student and family information.Ensure adherence to laws and standards set by the California Department of Education.QualificationsEducationRequired: High School DiplomaPreferred: Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Psychology, or related fieldExperienceMinimum one (1) year as an Instructional Assistant, Teaching Assistant, or Paraprofessional.One (1) year experience working directly with students with autism or developmental disabilities.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesUnderstanding of child development, behavioral strategies, and special education programs.Openness to training and implementing new techniques.Proficiency in Google Workspace.Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.Professional demeanor, calm under pressure, and ability to work collaboratively.Creativity, flexibility, and self-motivation. Physical RequirementsThe role involves significant physical activity, including sitting, standing, walking, and assisting students.Regular ActivitiesSitting, handling materials, exerting up to 20 lbs. of force.Frequent ActivitiesStanding, walking/running, reaching, handling, exerting up to 40 lbs. of force.Occasional ActivitiesLifting up to 25 lbs., climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, pushing, pulling, and exerting up to 80 lbs. of force.SafetyStaff must maintain Safety-Care certification (by QBS) to handle behavioral crises safely and professionally. Physical restraint is used only as a last resort and under approved procedures.