A Tennessee Public School K-8 Teaching Assistant (often titled Instructional or Educational Assistant) is responsible for supporting certified teachers in delivering instructional, behavioral, and administrative services across both regular education and special education settings. This dual role ensures all students, including those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), receive the necessary accommodations and reinforcement to succeed in inclusive or self-contained learning environments. Job SummaryPosition Title: K-8 Teaching / Instructional / Educational AssistantReports To: School Principal and Assigned Supervising Teacher(s)Location: Assigned Tennessee Public School District (K-8 Elementary/Middle School) Core ResponsibilitiesRegular Education ServicesInstructional Support: Reinforce core academic lessons by working with students in small groups or one-on-one settings. Classroom Management: Assist in maintaining a structured, positive, and safe learning environment aligned with the teacher's discipline plan.Material Preparation: Prepare, organize, and distribute instructional materials, bulletin boards, and learning center activities.Student Supervision: Monitor students during non-instructional times, including recess, lunch, assemblies, hallway transitions, and bus loading zones. Administrative Assistance: Perform clerical duties such as taking attendance, grading objective assignments, and organizing paperwork. Special Education ServicesIEP Implementation: Deliver targeted instructional interventions and accommodations as prescribed by each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).Inclusion Support: Accompany special education students into general education classrooms to facilitate participation and modify tasks under teacher guidance.Behavior Interventions: Implement and continuously monitor Behavioral Intervention Plans (BIPs) using designated positive behavioral supports.Data Tracking: Document and log daily student progress, behavioral incidents, and academic performance for review by the special education team. Personal Care Assistance: Provide physical and self-help support when necessary, including assistance with mobility, feeding, toileting, or specialized adaptive equipment. Job Qualifications & RequirementsEducation: High school diploma or equivalent required. Must meet Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) "highly qualified" standards via an Associate degree, 48 college credit hours, or passing the Praxis ParaPro Assessment.Experience: Experience working with school-aged children or individuals with disabilities is highly preferred.Certifications: Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification and complete district-mandated crisis intervention/de-escalation training (e.g., CPI). Physical DemandsFrequent standing, walking, kneeling, crouching, and bending.Ability to lift, carry, or position students or equipment (typically up to 40–50 lbs).High level of fine finger dexterity and visual acuity for documentation and classroom tasks