Teacher Assistant (Cougar Mountain)

The Gersh Organization is dedicated to changing the lives of children on the autism spectrum. Our team of professionals is committed to providing opportunities, inspiration, and guidance for every child to reach their full potential, regardless of the challenges they face. With our family of programs in various locations on Long Island, NY, Washington, and in Puerto Rico, Gersh is the leading provider of educational and support services for children on the autism spectrum and their families.  

The Teacher Assistant will be responsible for supporting the teacher who is teaching students who may demonstrate academic, behavioral, and/or social deficits. Teaching all academic subjects and life skills, modifying when necessary to meet the individual needs of students. 

Duties and responsibilities 

• Support the teacher in utilizing appropriate methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis, Collaborative Problem Solving, or other effective strategies that prioritize the student’s needs. 

• Create a positive, authentic learning environment by displaying student work and projects. 

• Maintain a consistent and safe classroom environment for students. 

• Assist the teacher in planning and executing lessons tailored to individual student needs and appropriate group lessons. 

• Modify materials as needed to ensure effective student learning. 

• Keep accurate student records, including relevant information in each student's binder and writing annual reports as per guidelines. 

• Implement and support Individualized Education Programs (IEP) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) for each student. 

• Administer assessments to track student progress and identify areas of concern. 

• Collaborate with professionals, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and others to support a team-based approach. 

• Promote student health, safety, and social interaction with peers. 

• Participate in required training, team meetings, community activities, and school events. 

• Communicate regularly with supervisors regarding classroom dynamics and student development. 

• Complete daily attendance reports and supervise students during bathroom and mealtime activities, including cleaning and assisting with hygiene tasks. 

• Support the overall classroom environment by ensuring cleanliness, including sweeping floors and cleaning counters, shelves, refrigerators, and microwaves. 

• Attend all required staff meetings, workshops, and open houses. 

• Assign staff to students each morning and check daily data collection each afternoon.  

• Other, as assigned by administration. 

Requirements

Qualifications 

• Associate’s degree preferred 

• Prior experience as a Teaching Assistant is required 

• Teaching Assistant Skills Test (ATAS) 

• Experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum preferred 

Working conditions 

• Location: Issaquah, Washington 

• Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM 

• Occasional before- and after-school work hours at the discretion of the administrative staff. 

• School/classroom setting. 

Physical requirements 

• Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI procedures. 

• Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child. 

Benefits

Healthcare Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

Retirement Plan (401k)

Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)

Short Term & Long Term Disability

Training & Development