Teaching Assistant

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5-21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Academy for Young Minds (AYM), powered by Gersh, is seeking an experienced Teaching Assistant to join our team in one of our state-of- the-art classrooms in Long Island City, Queens. AYM is a private school for learners on the Autism Spectrum. This is a full-time, 12-month school calendar position.

Under the supervision of the Head Teacher and the BCBA, the Assistant Teacher will provide instruction to students and help implement individualized curricular activities for each student. This individual will also support student learning through data collection on programs and progress toward goals.

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. 

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• Experience in teaching special education students (preferably using ABA methodology)
• Understanding of the needs of students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and/or other developmental disabilities
• Knowledge of NYS Common Core Standards
• Excellent verbal and written communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
• Computer proficiency (e.g., data base, word processing, etc.)

Preferred: New York State Teaching Assistant (TA) Certification

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures. 
• Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child. 
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday
• Ability to lift (at least 50-65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes
• Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training)
• Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly
• Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment
• Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships
• Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations

Schedule

• 8AM-3:30PM (and once a week until 4PM for a team meeting)

Benefits for Full Time Employees

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth. 

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k matching)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development