Early Elementary Classroom Aide

Early Elementary Classroom Aide

Location: San Rafael, CA
Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Pay Range: $28–$32 per hour, depending on experience
Department: Early Elementary
Reports to: Lead Teacher / Director of Academics

Position Overview

The Early Elementary Classroom Aide plays a critical role in supporting students’ academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth. Working closely with the lead teacher and interdisciplinary team, the aide helps implement individualized education plans (IEPs), provides direct student support, and contributes to a calm, organized, and responsive classroom environment.

This role is ideal for someone who is patient, observant, flexible, and interested in growing their skills in special education, autism support, or a related helping profession.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support

• Provide direct, hands-on support to students during academic, social, and daily routines


• Support implementation of IEP goals under the direction of the lead teacher and therapists


• Assist with behavior regulation using school-approved strategies and guidance


• Build positive, respectful relationships with students while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries

Classroom & Instructional Support

• Assist the lead teacher in preparing materials, visuals, and learning activities


• Support small-group and 1:1 instruction as directed


• Help maintain an organized, predictable, and nurturing classroom environment


• Step in flexibly to support students during transitions or moments of dysregulation

Collaboration & Communication

• Work collaboratively with teachers, counselors, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavior specialists


• Follow established plans and communicate observations clearly and professionally


• Participate in team meetings and trainings as required


• Seek clarification and guidance when unsure, while making thoughtful attempts to problem-solve

Data & Documentation

• Collect data as directed by teachers or therapists


• Support accurate and timely documentation related to student support

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent AND one of the following:
  
  
  
  • Completion of two years of college (48 semester units), or
  
  
  • An Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree or higher, or
  
  
  • Passing a local assessment of knowledge and skills in assisting in instruction
    
  
  
  
  


• At least 2 years of experience working with autistic children (behavioral experience strongly preferred)


• Ability to work calmly and effectively in a dynamic classroom environment


• Strong collaboration and communication skills


• Comfort with hands-on, student-centered, and flexible teaching approaches

Preferred

• Experience working in a special education setting


• Coursework or professional interest in education, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, behavior analysis, counseling, or psychology
  

What We’re Looking For

• Someone who is kind, reliable, and emotionally steady


• Able to take direction, ask questions, and grow with feedback


• Comfortable working as part of a team and supporting shared goals


• Interested in developing confidence, initiative, and professional communication over time

Benefits

• Competitive pay: $28–$32/hour


• Full-time schedule with predictable hours


• 5 weeks of paid school breaks plus all national holidays


• Medical and dental insurance available (school covers 75% for eligible employees)


• 403(b) retirement plan


• Supportive team environment with opportunities for learning and growth