Teaching Assistant Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

A Teaching Assistant, or Teacher Assistant, is responsible for helping Teachers complete daily tasks within a classroom environment. Their duties include leading lessons or small group activities for students, grading student assignments in accordance with the Teachers grading criteria and providing individual guidance to students with learning disabilities or behavioral challenges.

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Teaching Assistant duties and responsibilities

Teaching Assistants perform many leadership, organizational and classroom management tasks to support both Teachers and students. Their duties and responsibilities often include:

  • Helping Teachers with lesson preparation, including collecting materials and setting up equipment
  • Reviewing lessons or lectures with students on a one-on-one basis or in small groups
  • Supervising students in class, between classes and during recreation periods and field trips
  • Tracking attendance, grading assignments and calculating grades
  • Giving extra help to students who need special accommodations or are struggling with a concept
  • Assisting students with special learning requirements, including disabilities or English as a second language students
  • Attending faculty meetings and parent conferences
  • Collaborating with the Teacher to identify students’ issues and recommend solutions
  • Observing state, school and class rules and regulations
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Teaching Assistant Job Description Examples

 

Example 1

New York Center for Child Development is a dynamic Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) program dedicated to excellence in the education and treatment of young children with special needs.

Join our team as a Teacher Assistantfor our center-based self-contained CPSE classroom. This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking for classroom experience and mentorship in a special education preschool environment.

We offer a competitive compensation package, as well as a comprehensive benefits package including optional health/dental/vision insurance, 403(b) with generous company match, additional company-sponsored retirement savings plan, pre-tax commuter benefit, and paid vacation/sick/holidays.

Responsibilities
  • :
  • Engage with the students at their developmental level throughout the day.
  • Implement classroom curriculum addressing child’s IEP goals and curriculum goals.
  • Promote independence and higher level thinking through open-ended questions and conversations.
  • Participate in Quarterly Team meetings.
  • Participate in monthly curriculum planning sessions.
  • Assist Teacher in preparation for daily activity making sure all pieces of activity are present and neatly presented.
  • Be aware of children’s needs bring unusual occurrences to teacher attention.
  • Consistently utilize classroom/ behavior management strategies throughout the day (state expectations continuously, give positive alternatives, use &;I&; messages)
  • Assist children with bathroom skills i.e. changing diapers, supervising toileting, washing hands, pulling up and down clothing. Use universal precautions during these tasks.
  • Assist children with snack and lunch: Prepare food for safety not too hot, chewable pieces, utensils. Converse with students while they are eating (children do not have to eat their lunch but they must sit and socialize until the 15 minute lunch period is over). Follow DOH standards for food prep and storage.
  • Maintain weekly DOH checklist for required procedures.
  • Bring knowledge of different cultures into the classroom and integrate into the curriculum.
  • If bilingual - support classroom implementation of dual language acquisition.

    *Required Qualifications:
  • Valid NYS Teacher Assistant Certification (Level I, II, or III) will be considered.
  • COVID-19 Vaccination
  • Previous experience working in an early childhood special education program.
  • Experience working with children age’s three to five.
  • Additional languages and/or ESL training/certification also preferred, but not required.

    *Job type: Full-time.

    Reports to: Administrative Teacher Coordinator; Curriculum Coordinator; CPSE Classroom Teacher

    About us

    New YorkCenter for Child Development is dedicated to promoting the optimal development of young children. We offer educational and therapeutic services for children from three through age five, and for their parents and the professionals and institutions that serve them. Underlying all our work is the latest academic research and an understanding of the profound effect of early childhood relationships and mental health on all future development and success.

    New York Center strives to identify and address developmental and mental health challenges, focusing on children’s interests and strengths and ensuring that the relationships in which they grow are positive and supportive. We are deeply committed to the children we serve and to all children, who will benefit from the advancement of knowledge, training, and public policy we seek.

    Our CPSE program is funded and regulated by the New York State Department of Education and, in New York City, by the New York City Department of Education.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

    COVID-19 considerations:
    COVID-19 vaccines are required for all employees.

    Application Question(s):
  • Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19?

    Experience:
  • Early Childhood: 1 year (Preferred)

    Language:
  • Spanish (Preferred)

    License/Certification:
  • Teaching Assistant Certification (Level I, II, or III) Location: One location
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    Example 2

    Essential Responsibilities:

    1. Ensures all children are appropriately chaperoned and never left unattended in all situations such as facility, transportation, playground, or community outing.

    2. When substituting for an Aide on the bus, ensures all children have evacuated the bus, and checks for personal items left on the bus.

    3. Assists in establishing and implementing an appropriate active learning environment.

    4. Coordinates with the assigned Teacher to ensure daily educational requirements are being accomplished.

    5. Aids in establishing a daily routine consistent with Creative Curriculum.

    6. Assists in using Teaching Strategies Gold On-line as assessment tool and entering

    data in to the system three times per program year. *

    7. Maintains a positive learning environment, models positive behavior, and engages in positive adult-child interactions.

    8. Observes and assesses children, developing and implementing appropriate lesson plans pursuant to required time lines. *

    9. Assists in establishing home and centers communications by encouraging parent participation.

    10. Participates in periodic home visits and in parent teacher conferences. *

    11. Practices daily health routines including potty training, hand washing, etc.; and follows emergency procedures if needed.

    12. Records and updates all associated records including the screenings which must be completed within the first 45 days of service. *

    13. Acts in capacity of teacher during teacher’s absence. *

    14. Assists with fastening children in to harnesses on bus and attaching name tags. Rides the bus as required and ensures active participation by the children while on the bus.

    15. Performs other reasonably related duties as assigned by immediate supervisor and other management as required.

    16. Eats with children sharing the same menu while demonstrating socially acceptable behaviors and manners.

  • Not applicable to day-to-day substitutes

    Additional Responsibilities:

    1. Provides assistance as needed at the center.

    2. Attends evening meetings and participates in job related training as required.

    3. Follows the program procedures relating to confidentiality.

    4. Performs overnight travel as required.

    5. Mandated Child Abuse/Neglect reporter

    6. Must pass initial and tri-annual physical exam and TB screening.

    Knowledge, Skills, AND Abilities:

    1. Working knowledge of computers, including MS Word, Excel, and other related programs.

    2. Working knowledge of social service systems.

    3. Proficient oral and written communication skills including effective listening skills.

    4. Ability to deal tactfully with the public.

    5. Working knowledge of outcome-based services.

    6. Knowledge of Creative Curriculum.

    7. Knowledge of State Learning Standards.

    8. Knowledge of CLASS.

    9. Pediatric First Aid and CPR Certification.

    Minimum Requirements OF Education, Training, AND Experience:

    1. Have a CDA credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA, are enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree or, are enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of the time of hire.

    2. Current PA driver’s license and reliable transportation. (Required)

    3. Free of Child Abuse/Neglect history as verified by proper authorities. (Required)

    4. Must obtain Child Abuse, PA State Police, and FBI Fingerprinting Clearances prior to starting employment. (Required)

    5. Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood (ECE). (Preferred)

    6. Minimum one (1) year professional work experience with preschool children. (Preferred)

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $11.44 per hour

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

    Education:
  • High school or equivalent Location: One location
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    Example 3

    Metropolitan School District OF PIKE Township

  • Administrative Services Center*

    6901 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46268-2467

    [website]

    Job Description

    Instructional Assistant

    Elementary School

    Instructional assistants must be under the direct supervision of a certified teacher when providing supplemental support and instruction to students.

    In consultation and collaboration with teachers and instructional coaches, the instructional assistant:

  • Provides appropriate, supplemental support to students to make progress in reading, writing, and mathematics
  • Provides additional support to students in general education classrooms to acquire content skills and concept knowledge
  • Scaffolds learning to assists students in completing projects, assignments, and assessments through push-in support under supervision of a certified teacher
  • Communicates students’ progress and provides support to students who are failing to meet grade level proficiency standards and/or assessments
  • Assists and monitors progress of students using technology to support learning
  • Assists with assessment data entry and other clerical duties relative to student learning and progress monitoring
  • Other duties and activities related to students and family engagement deemed appropriate, supplemental and necessary for student success

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: From $14.62 per hour

    Schedule:
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

    Education:
  • High school or equivalent Location: Multiple Locations
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    What does a Teaching Assistant do?

    Teaching Assistants typically work for daycare centers, preschools, elementary schools, middle schools or high schools to contribute to students’ beneficial learning experiences. They work closely with Teachers to develop lesson plans and create individualized coursework for students performing above or below the average education level for their grade. Their job is to motivate students to complete assignments and provide additional insights to parents about their child’s progress. They may also be responsible for speaking with Teachers about recurring instances of bullying or students struggling to learn course material to find creative solutions.

    Teaching Assistant skills and qualifications

    A Teaching Assistant uses a variety of soft skills and specialized knowledge to promote a safe, engaging and informational experience in the classroom, including:

    • Excellent communication skills, including writing, public speaking and interpersonal conversation
    • Great organization and planning skills
    • Collaboration and teamwork abilities
    • In-depth knowledge of subjects or discipline they’re assisting with
    • Understanding of pedagogical best practices
    • Ability to engage students of all learning levels and grade levels
    • Patience and empathy
    • Compassionate, positive and encouraging attitude 

    Teaching Assistant salary expectations

    Teaching Assistants make an average of $25,733 per year. Salary may depend on level of education, experience and geographical location.

    Teaching Assistant education and training requirements

    Teaching Assistant candidates typically have at least a high school diploma or GED. Some candidates may have completed a teaching training program and earned a professional certificate, while others may have an associate degree in psychology or education. Other candidates may have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, early childhood development or another relevant discipline. Training in classroom activities and teaching practices through teaching practicums, student teaching programs, unions and professional organizations may also be common. A Teaching Assistant who works with special needs students may have completed specialized training in best practices.

    Teaching Assistant experience requirements

    An entry-level Teaching Assistant may have relevant experience from a practicum, student teaching program or training program. Other entry-level candidates may have previous experience with roles in customer service, administrative support and childcare, which may provide candidates with relevant communication, organization and interpersonal skills. For roles with special education students, previous experience as a Teaching Assistant or in another special education role may be required. Experienced candidates may have years of experience as a Teaching Assistant or in another childcare- or classroom-related role.

    Job description samples for similar positions

    If this Teaching Assistant job description template isn’t what you’re looking for, see our job descriptions for related positions:

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    Frequently asked questions about Teaching Assistants

     

    What is the difference between a Teaching Assistant and a Teacher?

    Teaching Assistants and Teachers work together to provide students with successful learning opportunities. However, they have different qualifications. This means Teachers take on a more senior role, while Teaching Assistants provide a supportive role, which subsequently affects the scope of their job responsibilities. For example, Teachers need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree in education, followed by obtaining a teaching license. In contrast, Teaching Assistants may have a high school diploma and certification or an associate’s degree. Teaching Assistants may also be in the process of obtaining their bachelor’s degree during their employment. 

    Because of their differences in education, Teachers have more in-depth job responsibilities like ensuring that course materials align with local or state education guidelines, managing parent communications and entering grades ahead of midterms or report card deadlines. In contrast, Teaching Assistants help them with grading or teaching certain lessons throughout the day.

     

    What are the daily duties of a Teaching Assistant?

    On a typical day, a Teaching Assistant arrives at their workplace before the school day starts. They work with the Teacher to set up activities, grade papers and run through lesson plans. They greet students and help them start their warm-up activities. Throughout the day, they lead small activities and provide students with assistance when necessary. After students leave, they help the Teacher by cleaning up the classroom and grading more assignments.

     

    What qualities make a good Teaching Assistant?

    A good Teaching Assistant has excellent public speaking abilities, enabling them to help students stay focused and engaged throughout lessons. They have a personable nature that helps students feel comfortable asking for questions or advice, but they also have the ability to discipline students when necessary. Further, a good Teaching Assistant demonstrates respect toward the Teacher and sets an example of how students should treat the Teacher. A good Teaching Assistant also has a creative mindset that enables them to develop fun educational activities or displays.

     

    What should you look for on a Teaching Assistant resume?

    When reviewing resumes for a Teaching Assistant candidate, be sure to look for key qualifications or skills that match your initial job description. Typically, Teaching Assistants have earned an associate’s degree or a high school diploma followed by internship experience or certifications. They may also have previous experience in a Teaching Assistant role. In this situation, review what grade level they worked with and the types of tasks they helped Teachers perform to get more information about their qualifications. 

    Further, Teaching Assistants should use their resume skill section to highlight their love for teaching children and using educational software to plan lessons or grade assignments.

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