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