Classroom Support Specialist

Where Compassion Meets Connection—Join Our Team

At Common Threads, we believe in relationships, regulation, and respect as the foundation for growth in an educational setting.

We’re looking for a kind, flexible, and student-centered Classroom Support Specialist to join our growing team. If you’re seeking a role where your presence matters, collaboration is meaningful, and every child is honored for exactly who they are, this may be the right fit for you.

Does this sound like you?

• You believe every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
• You stay grounded and open to learning—especially in moments of challenge.
• You thrive in a collaborative environment and enjoy being part of a close-knit, multidisciplinary team.
• You’re passionate about neurodiversity and committed to creating safe, inclusive spaces for students to grow.

We are...

A mid-sized nonprofit on Madison’s East Side with a big heart and a clear mission: To empower autistic and neurodivergent students, and those with mental health needs or sensory differences, through individualized, trauma-informed, strength-based services.

At Common Threads, we believe learning happens in the context of safety and trust. We walk alongside students as they grow—honoring their identities, co-creating success, and building meaningful connection every step of the way.

What you’ll find at Common Threads:

• A warm, collaborative team that cares deeply about kids—and each other
• Thoughtful routines that prioritize student regulation and staff support
• A culture where curiosity, creativity, and compassion guide our work
• A space where every team member’s voice and contributions are valued

What Your Day Will Look Like:

Classroom Support Specialists work closely with teachers and therapists to provide individualized, relational support to students throughout the day. You'll help facilitate learning, transitions, and regulation strategies—ensuring that each student feels safe, respected, and empowered.

Duties may include:

• Supporting students through academic, therapeutic, and play-based activities
• Assisting with regulation tools, sensory accommodations, and daily routines
• Collaborating with team members to plan and adapt classroom activities
• Helping maintain safe, predictable, and affirming environments

Qualifications:

• Associate degree, coursework, or experience in education, psychology, or a related field
• Enthusiasm for working with Autistic and other Neurodivergent students
• Commitment to neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practices
• Willingness to learn and grow as part of a collaborative team
• Reliable transportation
• Auto insurance with liability limits no less than $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident, and $100,000 property damage (required by our insurance provider) a plus

Full-time employees are eligible for health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, a professional development stipend, and a retirement account with company match. Common Threads is a public student loan forgiveness program qualifying employer.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to maintain stamina and adjust body positioning to support students in various settings and activities (e.g., crouching, sitting, standing, etc.)
• Ability to move quickly when necessary to ensure student, staff, and personal safety
• General computer use, including typing and screen time

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Common Threads is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We comply with all laws prohibiting discrimination against employees or applicants based on age, race, ethnicity, religion, color, gender, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, arrest or conviction record, military status, political beliefs, or any other protected status.

Common Threads and all subcontractors agree not to discriminate on the basis of disability in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, Wisconsin Statutes secs. 111.321 and 111.34, and Chapter 19 of the Dane County Code of Ordinances.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Madison, WI 53704 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Madison, WI 53704: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person