Teaching Assistant

Sommerville, MA, USA|

Job Overview

Compensation

Hourly

Range $17.68 - $28.18

Work Schedule

Flexible

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

wellness programs

Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)

flexible spending accounts

Life insurance

long-term disability insurance

401(k) plan with employer match

Tuition Reimbursement

Paid Time Off

employee recognition programs

Employee assistance program (EAP)

legal services

Referral bonuses

credit union access

Pre-tax MBTA passes

Job Description

Perkins School for the Blind is an internationally recognized non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to empowering children with disabilities to find their place in the world. With a rich history of advocacy, education, and support, Perkins is committed to delivering best-in-class education to children with complex disabilities and visual impairments. The organization not only focuses on providing high-quality educational opportunities but also emphasizes immersive training and support for professionals and families. This holistic approach ensures that children receive the care and instruction necessary for their personal growth, development, and inclusion in society. Perkins actively advocates for social inclusion and advances innovations that improve the lives of people with disabilities worldwide. The core values of Perkins include courage, collaboration, and ownership of their work, creating a supportive and growth-oriented community where every team member's contribution makes a meaningful impact.

The role of a Teaching Assistant at Perkins is pivotal to the success of its educational mission. This position offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about education and dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of students with special needs. Teaching Assistants work closely with educators and resident supervisors at one of Perkins' three schools, which combine both school and residential settings. The role includes a variety of responsibilities ranging from direct student instruction to behavioral support and care. Teaching Assistants help implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, ensuring progress in academic, social, organizational, and communication skills. These professionals also play a critical role in supporting student safety, providing personal care where necessary, and managing behavior through de-escalation techniques and Safety Care strategies.

Perkins values collaborative teamwork and professional development, and Teaching Assistants are encouraged to participate regularly in staff training and meetings. Perkins offers flexible scheduling to accommodate various lifestyles, along with potential benefits such as free, on-campus housing and meals, which makes the role even more attractive for those dedicated to working with this special population. Additionally, Perkins provides comprehensive training opportunities including Sign Language and Safety Care, First Aid, CPR, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification. The pay range for a Teaching Assistant typically falls between $17.68 and $28.18 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

This position demands a high degree of empathy, patience, and professionalism. Teaching Assistants support student independence and self-confidence while fostering essential skills needed for daily living and academic achievement. The role also involves supporting students in extracurricular and therapeutic activities such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and off-campus outings. Willingness to train for additional responsibilities like Perkins Vehicle Driver Clearance and administering G-tube water/feeds enhances the value of candidates. Perkins is located in Watertown near the Charles River and Arsenal Yards, providing a vibrant community setting. As an equal opportunity employer, Perkins warmly welcomes individuals who share its mission and vision to join its team.

Job Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent
Experience working with special needs students preferred
Ability to maintain first aid and CPR certification
Completion of Safety Care Training
Ability to use AED
Willingness to learn sign language depending on role
Ability to provide personal care such as hygiene and feeding
Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment
Ability to collaborate effectively with team members
Willingness to participate in professional development

Job Qualifications

High School diploma or equivalent required, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred
Experience working with students with special needs in a classroom, volunteer, or professional setting preferred
Willingness to complete and maintain First Aid and CPR certification
Willingness to complete Safety Care Training
Willingness to learn and use Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
Ability to learn and utilize American Sign Language depending on program needs

Job Duties

Teach or assist students to achieve specific IEP objectives
Assist in developing, implementing, and documenting measurable IEP goals, objectives, and strategies
Collect and accurately document student performance data using program-specific logs and data systems
Support student independence, self-confidence, and development of social, organizational, and other critical skills
Take initiative in planning, providing age-appropriate activities and facilitating student participation
Demonstrate understanding of the general curriculum and the Expanded Core Curriculum
Provide individualized language and communication modeling based on student needs, including the use of AAC devices and American Sign Language
Maintain a safe and secure environment using sound judgment and problem-solving skills
Provide and monitor direct care tailored to each student’s abilities such as hygiene, toileting, showering, feeding, dressing, and lifting/transferring
Respect student privacy and dignity while providing appropriate physical assistance
Implement individual Behavior Support Plans and de-escalation techniques
Apply Safety Care strategies effectively to manage student behaviors
Participate in staff development, training, and student/staff meetings
Collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and program goals
Provide classroom or cottage coverage including Teacher and Related Service Provider absence coverage
Actively assist students in clinical, physical/recreational, and off-campus activities such as PT, OT, SLP, therapeutic pool, gym, track, field trips, and driving
Willingness to train for Perkins Vehicle Driver Clearance
Willingness to train in and provide G-tube water/feeds as appropriate
Perform other tasks and duties as assigned