Teacher Assistant - LaGrange School in Poughkeepsie, NY

Description

Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services— are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Who We Need

We are looking for patient, energetic and passionate Teacher Assistant for our LaGrange School Program, located in Poughkeepsie, NY.  This is an opportunity to work with an interdisciplinary team focusing on the educational programming for all children at every level of ability. Teacher Assistants will attend to the daily needs of the children, assist the teacher in carrying out classroom activities, and cover the classroom in the absence of the teacher. Experience within early childhood & special education, and NYS Teacher Assistant Certification required for Teacher Assistant level position. 

Schedule: Monday- Friday 8:00am-3:00pm, 32.5 hours per week, 48 weeks per year (includes a 6-week summer program)  

Pay Range: $17.82 - $19.82 per hour

Responsibilities:

• Assumes responsibility of the classroom in the absence of the Classroom Teacher.
• Follows classroom schedule ensuring that individual student therapies and IEP goals are implemented, and appropriate data is collected to ensure those goals.
• Assists students using classroom educational computer programs.
• Assists the Classroom Teacher and Teacher Aides in the preparation and development of teacher made materials.
• Assists in the organization and arrangement of the classroom in order to provide a conducive learning environment to meet each student’s individual needs.
• Assists in general housekeeping skills.
• Escorts and assists students to and from school buses providing opportunities for increased independence in orientation and mobility.
• Provides an adequate and safe level of supervision to students and where a question rises to the level of adequacy seeks guidance from immediate supervisor and/or Program Director.
• Assists in classroom according to staffing patterns and children’s needs i.e.: all stages of toileting, conducting small group and individual activities, giving snack and lunch, providing playground supervision, etc.
• Attends professional/general staff meetings and in-service training in agency, district, and community, and shares knowledge with other teaching staff. (Minimum of 30 hours every 2 years). 
• Attends trainings and participate in webinars for the designated curriculum for UPK and implement into all aspects of the classroom.
• Ensures that employees follow the Code of Ethical and Legal Behavior and conform to the strictest standards of Corporate Compliance and HIPAA, as well as all federal, state, local and municipal laws and regulations.
• Incorporates core concepts of CQL philosophy into day-to-day operation and support methods.
• Supports agency vision and mission.
• Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and safety to others. 
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as required by immediate supervisor, program director, or as circumstances warrant.

Perks & Benefits: 

• Time to Recharge – Personal, sick, and holidays built around the school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered
• Plan for The Future – 401(k) with employer match and employer-paid life insurance
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and online training through the College of Direct Support (and to boost your earning potential)
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Exclusive Extras – Employee discounts with Verizon, AT&T, Royal Carting, and more

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• NYS Teacher Assistant Certification.
• Experience working with children and/or people with disabilities a plus!
• Have the ability to push and pull students in wheelchairs, lift, bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques), with or without a reasonable accommodation. 

A Note on Qualifications:

· At Abilities First, we recognize that talent and potential come in many forms. If this position inspires you but your experience does not align with every preferred qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role—or another opportunity within our organization