Job Description:
INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT
Catholic Academy Bridgeport
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Instructional Assistant supports the mission of the Catholic Academy of Bridgeport by assisting the classroom teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, academically rigorous, and faith-filled learning environment. Working under the supervision of the classroom teacher and principal, the Instructional Assistant promotes the spiritual, academic, social, emotional, and physical development of students while fostering a culture rooted in Gospel values and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
MISSION & CATHOLIC IDENTITY
- Support and uphold the mission, philosophy, and values of the Catholic Academy of Bridgeport and the Diocese of Bridgeport.
- Model Christian values, Catholic teachings, and Gospel-centered behavior through words and actions.
- Participate respectfully in daily prayer, school liturgies, Mass, retreats, religious celebrations, and faith-based activities.
- Foster a classroom culture rooted in kindness, respect, compassion, forgiveness, and service.
- Serve as a positive Christian role model for students at all times.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
Instructional Support
- Assist with the implementation of daily instructional lessons.
- Reinforce teacher-directed instruction with individual students and small groups.
- Support differentiated instruction to meet diverse learning needs.
- Provide guided practice using teacher-prepared instructional materials.
- Assist students requiring additional academic support or intervention.
- Assist with learning centers, stations, project-based learning, and classroom activities.
- Prepare instructional materials, classroom resources, manipulatives, and visual displays.
- Operate classroom technology and assist students in the appropriate use of educational technology.
- Support accommodations and modifications for students as directed by the classroom teacher or Support staff.
- Encourage student independence while providing appropriate instructional support.
Classroom Management & Student Supervision
- Reinforce classroom routines, procedures, and expectations established by the classroom teacher.
- Promote positive student behavior through encouragement and redirection.
- Assist with classroom management using school-approved practices.
- Support students in developing self-regulation, responsibility, and respectful interactions.
- Help maintain an orderly, structured, and productive learning environment.
- Document observations regarding student behavior when requested by the classroom teacher or administration.
Classroom Environment & Student Care
- Prepares and organizes instructional materials, supplies, and displays; supports transitions and classroom cleanup.
- Assists students, as age-appropriate, with organization, executive functioning, transitions, and personal care consistent with school policy.
- Assists students receiving academic interventions and implements accommodations under the direction of the teacher.
PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES & COMMUNICATION
- Demonstrate punctuality, dependability, and professionalism.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding students, families, faculty, and school matters.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, specialists, and colleagues.
- Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability throughout the school day.
- Follow directions provided by the classroom teacher and school administration.
- Exhibit sound judgment and professional discretion.
- Maintain a positive attitude and contributes to a collaborative school culture.
- Dress professionally in accordance with Catholic Academy of Bridgeport standards.
- Serve as a positive role model in speech, behavior, appearance, and conduct.
- Communicate student concerns directly to the classroom teacher.
- Refer parent questions regarding academics, behavior, or classroom concerns to the classroom teacher or principal.
- Never independently communicate classroom concerns with parents without teacher or administrative approval.
- Maintain confidentiality in all verbal, written, and electronic communications.
- Participate in meetings and conferences as requested.
Interested candidates should complete the CT Reap application, include resume and three letters of recommendation to ahurtt@catholicacademybridgeport.org.