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Paraprofessional Special Education Student Support

SouthSide Elementary Charter School
Full-time
On-site
Rhode Island, United States
About SouthSide Elementary Charter School

SouthSide Elementary Charter School is a vibrant and mission-driven learning community that believes every child deserves a high-quality, joyful education. Rooted in academic excellence, social-emotional learning, and strong partnerships with families, SouthSide fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where both students and staff can flourish. With a shared commitment to equity, high expectations, and student success, SouthSide Elementary Charter School is not only a great place for children to learn but also an inspiring, fulfilling, and rewarding place to build a meaningful career in education.

Our Mission

SouthSide Elementary Charter School provides a diverse group of Providence kindergarten through fifth-grade students with a solid step toward college and community leadership. Students learn to read, write, think logically, and solve problems on grade level within a curriculum that emphasizes academic rigor, excellence, and community engagement in an extended school day and school year.

Our Core Values

Working relentlessly to ensure that every one of our students is on the path to college and community leadership

Holding high expectations for every student and maintaining an unwavering focus on achievement and growth

Using data to drive instruction through formative assessments, goal setting, and progress monitoring

Engaging students in experiential, hands-on learning experiences

Embracing a growth mindset and solutions-focused attitude

Understanding how rigor, relevance, and relationships impact student learning

Role Summary

The Teacher Assistant – Special Education Support plays a vital role in ensuring that students with disabilities receive the individualized academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports they need to thrive. This position works closely with special education and general education teachers to implement accommodations, modifications, and targeted interventions aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

The Teacher Assistant provides direct support to an assigned special education student and may assist other students requiring additional support throughout the school day. This role requires flexibility, compassion, collaboration, and a strong commitment to inclusive education and equitable access for all learners.

Key Responsibilities
Instructional and Behavioral Support

Provide individualized and small-group instruction under the direction of the special education and/or classroom teacher

Support students in accessing the general education curriculum and completing assignments

Implement accommodations, modifications, and behavior support plans as outlined in IEPs

Utilize de-escalation and positive behavioral intervention techniques to promote a calm and safe environment

Collect data on student progress toward IEP goals and share updates with the special education team

Support assistive technology and adaptive tools as needed

Classroom and Schoolwide Support

Supervise and engage students during transitions, lunch, recess, hallways, and field trips

Model and reinforce appropriate behavior using Responsive Classroom and other social-emotional practices

Maintain classroom organization and readiness for instruction

Collaborate with teachers and specialists to adapt lessons or materials for individual student needs

Serve as a substitute for the classroom teacher when needed

Family and Communication Support

Communicate effectively and professionally with families using their preferred method of communication

Participate in family engagement events and support home-school partnerships

Maintain confidentiality and professionalism regarding student information

Professional Growth and Collaboration

Participate in professional development and training focused on supporting diverse learners and inclusive practices

Collaborate with special education teachers, service providers, and school leaders to problem-solve and plan supports

Engage in continuous reflection and learning to improve instructional support practices

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required

Completion of a Teacher Assistant Pre-Employment Training Program approved by the RI Department of Education (RIDE):
RIDE Teacher Assistant Information

Teacher Assistant Certification or Associate’s Degree (or higher) in a related field preferred

Experience supporting students with disabilities in an inclusive or special education setting strongly preferred

Ability to build strong relationships with students and foster a positive, supportive environment

Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills

Completion of fingerprint background check required

Working Hours

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
(45-minute lunch, 30 minutes unpaid)

Please email letter of interest and resume to jgiangiulio@souhsideelementary.org
Apply now
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