Early Elementary Classroom Aide
Location: San Rafael, CA Schedule: Full-time, MondayFriday, 8:00 AM4:00 PM Pay Range: $28$32 per hour, depending on experience Reports to: Lead Teacher / Director of Academics
Position Overview
The Early Elementary Classroom Aide plays a critical role in supporting students' academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth. Working closely with the lead teacher and interdisciplinary team, the aide helps implement individualized education plans (IEPs), provides direct student support, and contributes to a calm, organized, and responsive classroom environment.
This role is ideal for someone who is patient, observant, flexible, and interested in growing their skills in special education, autism support, or a related helping profession.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct, hands-on support to students during academic, social, and daily routines
- Support implementation of IEP goals under the direction of the lead teacher and therapists
- Assist with behavior regulation using school-approved strategies and guidance
- Build positive, respectful relationships with students while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
Classroom & Instructional Support
- Assist the lead teacher in preparing materials, visuals, and learning activities
- Support small-group and 1:1 instruction as directed
- Help maintain an organized, predictable, and nurturing classroom environment
- Step in flexibly to support students during transitions or moments of dysregulation
Collaboration & Communication
- Work collaboratively with teachers, counselors, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavior specialists
- Follow established plans and communicate observations clearly and professionally
- Participate in team meetings and trainings as required
- Seek clarification and guidance when unsure, while making thoughtful attempts to problem-solve
Data & Documentation
- Collect data as directed by teachers or therapists
- Support accurate and timely documentation related to student support
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent AND one of the following: completion of two years of college (48 semester units), or an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree or higher, or passing a local assessment of knowledge and skills in assisting in instruction
- At least 2 years of experience working with autistic children (behavioral experience strongly preferred)
- Ability to work calmly and effectively in a dynamic classroom environment
- Strong collaboration and communication skills
- Comfort with hands-on, student-centered, and flexible teaching approaches
Preferred
- Experience working in a special education setting
- Coursework or professional interest in education, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, behavior analysis, counseling, or psychology
What We're Looking For
- Someone who is kind, reliable, and emotionally steady
- Able to take direction, ask questions, and grow with feedback
- Comfortable working as part of a team and supporting shared goals
- Interested in developing confidence, initiative, and professional communication over time
Benefits
- Competitive pay: $28$32/hour
- Full-time schedule with predictable hours
- 5 weeks of paid school breaks plus all national holidays
- Medical and dental insurance available (school covers 75% for eligible employees)
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Supportive team environment with opportunities for learning and growth