Kindergarten Assistant Teacher (Bilingual Spanish)

$55,806 - $55,806/Yr

Framingham Public Schools - Framingham, MA

Full-time - Entry Level

Framingham, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Kindergarten Assistant Teacher at Framingham Public Schools is a vital role designed to support students in a Kindergarten setting under the guidance of a certified teacher. This position is particularly focused on working within an inclusionary environment, which emphasizes the importance of providing a least restrictive setting for all students, including those with special needs. The assistant will engage in daily classroom activities, support the delivery of curriculum and instruction, and help students with diverse learning profiles. This includes caring for their physical and emotional health and safety while promoting their abilities and dignity in all interactions. The overarching goal is to uphold Framingham Public Schools' high expectations for achievement and ensure equal access to quality instruction for all students, thereby addressing the opportunity gap among various subgroups within the school community. Framingham Public Schools is committed to excellence in education, aiming to create empowered, responsible citizens through a comprehensive educational approach. The mission statement reflects a dedication to providing a safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive teaching environment. The district values diversity among its staff, recognizing that a diverse teaching workforce enhances the academic achievement of students. The school district actively seeks to maintain a workforce that mirrors the rich racial, linguistic, and cultural diversity of its student body, fostering an environment where all individuals feel included, valued, and respected. The role requires a commitment to supporting students with varied needs, including those with special education requirements. Candidates are expected to have a background that prepares them to contribute to the district's goals of diversity, inclusion, and belonging. The position also emphasizes the importance of building supportive relationships with students while maintaining professional boundaries. The assistant will perform various tasks, including helping students with physical needs, guiding them in academic tasks, and ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the school day. This role is essential in creating a nurturing and effective learning environment for all students.

Responsibilities

• Assist students with physical tasks such as putting on and taking off outerwear, moving between rooms, and using the lavatory.
• Support students during recitation, reading, and other curriculum tasks by guiding and helping them without directly teaching.
• Perform simple errands and tasks for students, such as sharpening pencils and carrying lunch trays.
• Accompany students to the office or school nurse when necessary.
• Ensure the safety of students and prevent them from harming themselves or others.
• Establish supportive relationships with students while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Serve as a resource for the student personnel evaluation team when requested.

Requirements

• At least an Associate's Degree or must pass the Parapro Test.
• Some experience working with children, especially those with special education needs or neurological disorders, is preferred.
• Additional specialized training in child development, education, or a related field is desirable.
• Ability to read and comprehend documents such as memos and safety rules.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work as a team member and establish effective working relationships with students, parents, staff, and the community.
• Proactive and solution-focused approach to meeting student needs.
• Ability to work with students from diverse backgrounds in an equitable and inclusive manner.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with special education students or children with Autism, PDD, or other neurological disorders.
• Understanding of the experiences of underrepresented groups in education.
• Non-traditional educational background.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage of $26.83.
• Supportive work environment focused on diversity and inclusion.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Access to resources for maintaining a long and productive career.