Special Education Teacher Aide | Academic Support Staff

Academic Support Staff - Make a Daily Impact in Students' Lives

At the Youth In Transition (YIT) School, Academic Support Staff play a vital role in helping students grow academically, emotionally, and socially. This position is hands‑on, relationship‑centered, and essential to creating a safe, structured, and encouraging learning environment for young people who need consistent support.

What You'll Do

Academic Support Staff work directly with students and teachers to bring classroom learning to life. You'll help implement lessons, guide students through activities, and provide one‑on‑one support to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. Whether you're assisting with instruction, helping students navigate transitions, or reinforcing positive behavior, your presence helps create stability and trust.

Key Responsibilities

• Support students individually and in small groups during teacher‑planned lessons

• Help maintain a positive, well‑managed classroom environment

• Collect and record academic and behavioral data to support student progress

• Supervise students during transitions, lunch, and time‑out periods

• Assist with daily classroom preparation and organization

• Engage actively in lessons and classroom activities

• Communicate important observations or concerns to the teacher

• Use approved behavior‑management strategies, including physical intervention when required

• Participate in end‑of‑day debriefs with the classroom teacher

• Take on additional tasks that contribute to a supportive school environment

Focused Student Support

Some Academic Support Staff work closely with an assigned student, providing consistent supervision and individualized assistance throughout the school day. This includes:

• Greeting the student each morning and supporting breakfast routines

• Staying within close proximity during class to help with academic tasks

• Escorting the student safely throughout the building

• Tracking behaviors and contributing to behavior‑management plans

• Planning age‑appropriate de‑escalation activities

• Understanding the student's triggers, habits, and needs

• Ensuring safe dismissal at the end of the day

Why This Role Matters

Students at YIT rely on structure, patience, and positive relationships. As Academic Support Staff, you become a steady, supportive presence in their day - someone who helps them feel safe, capable, and understood. Your work directly contributes to their growth, confidence, and long‑term success.

This isn't just a job. It's an opportunity to change lives, one day at a time.