Full-Time Life Skills Teaching Assistant and Aftercare Support

SUMMARY

The Life Skills Teaching Assistant will assist the Director of the Life Skills (LS) and Job Training (JT) Program and Job Coaches in the implementation of the curriculum for the Life Skills Program for our K-12 students. The focus for the students is preparation of employment and living skills. The goal for the students is to be able to live independently or in a group setting upon graduating and exiting the program. The role also entails Aftercare Support in our Aftercare Program at least 4 days a week.  

The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work performed by employees:

1. Authenticity: Conviction that God has called us to reflect exteriorly our inner life of faith in our daily living
2. Respect: Affirming each person’s God-given dignity and uniqueness.
3. Courage: Inspired by this gift of the Holy Spirit, we proclaim and live the Word of God fearlessly and devotedly.
4. Commitment: Individually and collectively, we are steadfast to the team and its purpose.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this classification. They are not listed in any order of importance. The omission of specific statements of the duties or functions does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Assists with the specific instructional, behavioral, academic, and other needs of students based on the assigned curriculum designed by the Director of the Program, and the Principal/Student Services Coordinator
• Assists with general clerical/housekeeping activities that align with the Life Skills and Job Training Program Curriculum; such as cooking, housekeeping, laundry, schedules.
• Assists in the physical care of students (example: toileting and clean-up).
• Assists in the transporting of students from one area to another.
• Collaborates and coordinates with the Director of the LS and JT Program and other job coaches through weekly meetings regarding the next week’s schedule for academic lessons and review any pertinent information regarding the students.
• Attends special events held by the school and/or Life Skills and Job Training Program.
• Provides a safe and nurturing environment for aftercare participants based on safety standards set within the program; ensures that any accidents and incidents are reported to the principal and/or other appropriate channels.
• Communicates with school administration, staff, and parents on a regular basis regarding program activities.
• Assist in the responsibilities each day including leading activities; crafts, experiments, story time, movies, etc. and incorporates time for homework support.
• Assists with restroom supervision and clean up as required.
• Maintains copies of emergency information for food allergies and any other health information applying to students enrolled in the program.
• Maintains complete and thorough attendance of all students.
• Motivates children to be involved in all aspects of the program.
• Ensures safe and accurate check in/out of students to authorized pick up members.
• Establishes and maintains appropriate and effective relationships with faculty, staff, parents, and students.
• Maintains confidentiality.
• Perform other job-related duties. 

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

CATHOLIC FAITH

Requires an appreciation and respect for the Catholic Church and its teachings. Employees must conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the church. Their public behavior must not violate the faith, morals or laws of the Church or the polices of the Diocese

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or equivalent required, B.A./B.S. in Education preferred, supplemented with at least three (3) years’ experience working with children ages 3-12 in a group setting.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Basic needs and characteristics of school age children.
• Principles and methods of child development and management.
• Principles and practices of managing an aftercare program.
• Computer software application for communication, research and data reporting.
• Oral and written communication skills to suit different audiences.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed mostly indoors in an environmentally controlled setting. Work is to be performed directly on school campuses. Work from home is not permitted. Works frequently in close physical proximity to others and may encounter work in enclosed or tight spaces. Hours for positions vary, but usually include weekday afternoons and extended summer hours.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The ability to sit and stand for long periods of time. Must be able to reach, grasp, feel, and see up close and from afar. Must be able to use basic office computer hardware and peripherals, with or without reasonable accommodation. Must be able to communicate verbally and in written form. Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (25 pounds). 

A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements are subject to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Requirements are representative of the minimum level of knowledge, skills, and ability.