About this role
Employee Group: TCCAPSA
Classification: III
Status: School year - 180 work days + 9 paid holidays
Location: Silver Lake Elementary
Master Agreement
TCCAPSA Benefits Summary
Retirement Benefits
General Summary
The Junior Kindergarten/Kindergarten Instructional Assistant supports classroom instruction and student learning under the direct supervision of the certified classroom teacher. Reporting directly to the building principal, this role plays a key part in fostering a positive, inclusive, and effective learning environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce concepts and skills introduced by the teacher, or monitor the whole group during targeted instruction.
- Assist in implementing tailored strategies to support diverse learning needs, interests, and abilities.
- Prepare, operate, and care for educational technology and instructional media used in the classroom.
- Guide students in mastering instructional materials and learning technology assigned by the teacher.
- Organize, distribute, and collect instructional materials, supplies, and student coursework.
- Facilitate independent study, enrichment activities, and remedial support designated by the classroom teacher.
- Supervise students during non-instructional and transition times, including recess, assemblies, line movement, and emergency drills.
- Assist in creating and maintaining engaging classroom displays, bulletin boards, and learning centers.
- Supports the implementation of individual student plans, such as IEPs and 504 plans, providing accommodations and assistance as directed.
- Assists students with the use of assistive technology, digital tools, and educational software under teacher guidance.
- Maintains clear and constructive collaboration and communication with classroom teachers, staff, and school teams.
- Follows established health and safety protocols to ensure a safe learning environment for all students.
- Lead or assist with large group activities, including story time, read-alouds, and group practice exercises.
- Engage actively with students in language development, early literacy skills, and interactive communication.
- Support students during visits to the Library Media Center (LMC) and special subjects.
- Review completed student work, track daily progress, and assist in proctoring assessments under teacher direction.
- Observe and communicate student progress, needs, or behavioral observations to the classroom teacher in a timely manner.
- Serve as a primary resource and support contact for substitute teachers to ensure continuity of classroom routines.
- Uphold high standards of professional ethics, student privacy, and confidentiality regarding student records and family information.
- Participate in required professional development and district training programs.
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the building administrator or supervisor.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required
- Minimum education requirement is a high school diploma. Previous college credit, WorkKeys certification or college degree preferred.
- Interpersonal skills necessary to deal effectively and courteously with students and school personnel.
- Skills in crises and rapidly developing behavioral needs of students.
- Previous experience working with children.
- Ability to care for, supervise, and nurture children.
- Ability to follow directions.
- Ability to work independently.
- Ability to assist with maintaining records of student progress.
- Ability to lift 50 pounds.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Strong conflict-resolution and problem-solving abilities.
- High level of dependability, punctuality, and discretion in handling sensitive information.
- Commitment to continuous learning and participation in staff training opportunities.
- Ability to maintain poise and composure in fast-paced or stressful situations.
Physical and Mental Requirements
- Ability to maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
- Ability to participate in physical activities required in an early childhood setting, including walking, standing, bending, stooping, crouching, reaching, pushing/pulling, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
- Strong auditory and oral communication skills to interact clearly and effectively with young students, staff, and parents.
- Visual and cognitive acuity to observe student behaviors, assess classroom situations, and execute appropriate supervisory actions.
- Ability to exercise critical thinking and sound judgment in responding to student needs and administrative expectations.
Environmental Conditions
Work is performed in indoor and outdoor educational settings, including classrooms, playgrounds, cafeterias, and school grounds. Tasks involve exposure to varying weather conditions, moderate-to-high noise levels, and active mobility across indoor and outdoor surfaces in close proximity to young children.
Work Schedules
Must be available to report during the school year consistent with the district's school year calendar.
Background Checks
The individual selected for this position will be required to pass a criminal history background check.