About this role
Exceptional Children Instructional Assistant – Grades 9–12 Manteo High School | Dare County Schools Manteo High School is seeking a dedicated, student-centered Exceptional Children (EC) Instructional Assistant to support students in grades 9–12. We are looking for an individual who believes in the potential of every student and is committed to helping students with disabilities develop the academic, behavioral, social, and independent-living skills necessary for success in high school and beyond. Position Responsibilities The EC Instructional Assistant will work collaboratively with Exceptional Children teachers, general education teachers, related service providers, and school administrators to provide individualized support to students in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Responsibilities may include:
• Providing instructional support to students individually and in small groups in both general education and special education settings.
• Reinforcing academic skills and instructional strategies under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Supporting students with organization, executive functioning, communication, self-advocacy, and other skills that promote greater independence.
• Assisting students with behavioral, social-emotional, functional, or adaptive needs as identified in their IEPs.
• Supporting implementation of IEP accommodations, modifications, behavior plans, and other individualized supports as directed by licensed staff.
• Helping students participate meaningfully and successfully in the general education environment.
• Supporting students during transitions, arrival/dismissal, lunch, school activities, and other portions of the school day as assigned.
• Assisting with data collection and documentation related to student progress and IEP goals.
• Maintaining student confidentiality and demonstrating professionalism when working with students, families, and staff.
• Promoting student dignity, inclusion, independence, and high expectations.
• Performing other duties necessary to support the Exceptional Children program and the overall operation of the school.
What We Are Looking For The ideal candidate is patient, dependable, flexible, and genuinely enjoys working with adolescents. Because high school students are preparing for adulthood, we are particularly interested in someone who can build positive relationships while maintaining clear expectations and encouraging students to become increasingly independent. Strong candidates will:
• Believe that students with disabilities should have meaningful access to rigorous learning and the full high school experience.
• Build positive, respectful relationships with teenagers.
• Remain calm and professional when students need behavioral or emotional support.
• Work effectively as part of a collaborative team.
• Follow teacher direction while also demonstrating initiative and sound judgment.
• Communicate professionally and maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality.
• Be willing to learn strategies for supporting students with a variety of academic, behavioral, communication, and functional needs.
• Maintain consistent attendance and understand the importance of reliability for students who depend on predictable support.
Previous experience working with students with disabilities is preferred but not required. Training and support will be provided. Applicants must meet all Dare County Schools and North Carolina requirements for the position. Join the Manteo High School Team At Manteo High School, our work is grounded in preparing students to Own Their Future. We want our students to leave high school not only with academic knowledge, but with the skills, confidence, responsibility, and independence necessary for their next steps. Our EC Instructional Assistants are an important part of that work. This position is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in students' daily experiences while working alongside a collaborative team committed to student growth and success.