High School Instructional Assistant

Position: High School Instructional Assistant (1.0)
The Role:

Westwood High School seeks one a 1.0 Instructional Assistant to join our caring and innovative community beginning February 9, 2026. The instructional assistant supports special education and general education teachers in maintaining appropriate instructional activities and environments as desribed in the individual educational plan so students learn effectively. You will be an integral part of our departmental team as we create challenging and inspiring teaching and learning experiences for all students.

Our District:

Westwood is a welcoming suburban community with an exceptional track record of supporting and celebrating its public schools. As a district, we are committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives and backgrounds are embraced, and we understand that a diverse team allows us to serve our community better. We welcome and encourage individuals of every race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, gender, marital/domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, and veteran status to seek opportunities within our school district.

You will join the strong professional learning community of the Westwood Public Schools. In our mission to prepare students for college, career, and civic life, we work collaboratively to provide rich and rigorous curriculum, high-quality instruction, trusting relationships, and authentic educational experiences. We hold true to our core district values of academic excellence and a commitment to improvement; curiosity and tenacity;

and respectful relationships in a caring, collaborative community.

Our School:

Westwood High School is a thriving community of hardworking and thoughtful students, families, and staff. With approximately 900 students in grades 9-12, the school maintains a small-school feel while offering a comprehensive array of academic programs, co-curricular activities, and support services. Our educators model and encourage a deep investment in learning. Coursework focuses on preparing students for college and careers while also providing them with opportunities to try new things and explore their passions in depth.

WHS is a proud METCO school, with strong program leadership and an unwavering commitment to supporting the values of the nation's oldest and most successful public school racial integration program.

QUALIFICATIONS

* Completion of a high school diploma required.

* Bachelor's degree and previous successful work with students highly preferred.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities :

* Work under teacher supervision with students to support learning of materials or skills in both pull out and in-class settings

* Support student acquisition of skills with equipment, technology or other instructional materials as assigned by the teacher.

* Guide independent study, enrichment work and remedial work supervised and assigned by the teacher

* Administer and monitor testing as the teacher directs (i.e. testing accommodations, extended time) for local and state mandated testing

* Assist the teacher in devision special strategies for reinforcing material or skills based on the special education students' individual needs, interests and ability

* Implement positive behavioral support plans in both pull out and inclusive settings

* Maintain data regarding student progress on educational objectives and share this information with supervising teacher on an as needed basis

* Communicate effectively with students, staff and community members as directed by supervising teacher

* Fulfill professional responsibilities by communicating effectively, using good judgment, meeting deadlines, engaging in professional development, reflecting on performance and making positive changes to improve student learning, being receptive to feedback, and completing assigned duties

* Other functions as determined by supervisor

Essential

Skills:

* Ability to work under the supervision of the teacher and communicate effectively and ask for assistance if a question or problem arises

* Ability to form and maintain positive relationships with children who may present with challenging behavior and or significant learning needs

* Strong organizational abilities to manage supporting multiple students in a variety of settings throughout the day

* Excellent communication skills with multiple communities (students, staff, parents, caregivers)

* Able to problem-solve challenging situations with support from teacher and other staff

* Demonstrates caring and concern for all students

* Ongoing professional demeanor in all aspects of communication and work with others

Job Environment:

Work takes place in classrooms and other building rooms/areas, including offices, auditorium, gym, lunchroom and hallways, within a school building setting, primarily indoors. Job takes place in a high-performing school district with high expectations.

Physical Requirements:

* Requires sufficient vision to read printed documents and to view detail on a computer screen for extended…