Special Education Instructional Assistant - Shoemaker Elementary
Company Description The East Penn School District is located in the Lehigh Valley metropolitan area, a growing region of about 500,000 residents with convenient access to New York City, Philadelphia, the Pocono Mountains, and the New Jersey shore. The district is experiencing steady residential and business growth, contributing to a vibrant community environment. East Penn employs approximately 565 professional and 505 support staff members, with a highly qualified teaching workforce where 90% hold a master’s degree or higher. Professional staff participate in ongoing development through workshops, conferences, and an Employee Development Program designed to enhance skills and instructional practices. Many team members also serve as resources at state, national, and international conferences, and contribute as adjunct professors and published researchers.
Role Description The Special Education Instructional Assistant is a 29 hour per week, on-site role based at Shoemaker Elementary School in Macungie, PA. This position supports students with diverse learning needs in special education classrooms and inclusive settings, following teacher-designed instructional plans and individualized education programs (IEPs). Day-to-day responsibilities include reinforcing academic and social-emotional skills, supporting behavior management strategies, assisting with classroom organization and materials, and providing one-on-one or small-group support. The Instructional Assistant collaborates closely with teachers and related service providers, monitors student progress, and helps maintain a safe, respectful learning environment. The role may also involve assisting with personal care tasks as needed, supervising students during transitions and school activities, and communicating observations to the instructional team.
Qualifications
• Candidates should possess strong Communication skills, including clear spoken and written communication with students, staff, and families.
• Candidates should possess effective Interpersonal Skills to build positive, respectful relationships and work collaboratively within a team.
• Candidates should possess Behavior Management skills to support positive behavior, implement classroom strategies, and respond calmly to challenging situations.
• Candidates should possess experience Working With Children in educational or childcare settings, with a commitment to student safety and well-being.
• Candidates should possess knowledge of Special Education practices, including familiarity with IEPs and accommodations for diverse learning needs.
• Additional beneficial qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent (postsecondary coursework or degree in education or related field preferred), basic computer skills, patience and flexibility, and the ability to follow established procedures and confidentiality guidelines.
• Previous experience in a school environment or with students with disabilities is strongly preferred; willingness to participate in ongoing training and professional development is expected.
Primary and Secondary Education
Education and Training
Part-time