Great Hearts Academies·Buckeye, Arizona
Provide academic and behavioral support to students in general and special education classrooms under the direction of certified teachers. Assist with student transitions, personal hygiene, and the implementation of behavior management strategies.
Special Education Teaching Assistant Location: North Phoenix Preparatory Academy (14100 N 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85032) Compensation
Hourly Rate: $16-$18 Distinctive benefits for Great Hearts
Exceptional Benefits (medical, dental, vision etc.) with minimal employee cost Matching 401K program Uniquely valuable professional development offerings, from great books seminars with academy colleagues, to leadership and special education coursework/pathways, to reduced tuition graduate degree support with select partner universities
The Instructional Assistant is a non-certified assistant to the Special Education Program at the academy for both general education and special education resource classrooms. The assistant will work to support students in all settings on campus under the direction of and in collaboration with the certified Special Education teachers and General Education teachers. Additional duties may be included, depending on the experience and expertise of the candidate and the specific academy needs.
Academic Support Supports students in small groups or 1:1 Assist students with assignments, homework, projects Understanding how to adapt materials and provide modifications to help students learn the material Help students understand the classroom rules and reinforce the classroom rules Behavior Support Monitor student behavior to ensure safety and appropriate interactions. Implement behavior management strategies Assist students with developing social skills, appropriate interactions, and positive behaviors Assist with de-escalating student behaviors and ask for support for General Education Teacher and Special Education Team Members as needed Reinforces SDI concepts that have already been in effect Additional Support Help students with transitions and activities. Support students with personal hygiene needs such as toileting, feeding, and dressing Support students with mobility and adaptive equipment Provides general clerical support for the ESS Team Additional Duties Attend meetings and training sessions Help maintain a clean and organized work area Provide a supportive and positive learning environment Required/Preferred Education: High school degree or higher Ideally, candidates will hold an associate's degree or higher. Associate degree (preferred) or two years/60 credit hours of higher education or a passing score on an appropriate ADE assessment. Required/Preferred Experience: Has experience in special education. Required/Preferred Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills, and an interest in reading great books. Physical Functions: Requires but is not limited to standing, sitting, repetitious hand and body movements, bending, squatting, and reaching. May be required to move or position equipment up to 15 pounds approximately. US work authorization is required, but we do accept OPT/CPT candidates. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal history background check and fingerprint clearance in accordance with state requirements. Travel required: May need to travel locally for training and professional development opportunities. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. It does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Great Hearts Academies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our purpose is to cultivate the minds and hearts of students through the pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. Great Hearts Academies leads the way in classical, liberal arts education. We are a growing network of charter schools and private Christian schools, expanding in existing and new regions across Arizona, Louisiana, and Texas. Whether you are seeking teaching, leadership, or campus support opportunities, we have established a mission-driven culture and emphasis on learning and growing, professionally and personally. At Great Hearts, we provide a calling to shape the future through an education that fosters human flourishing and academic excellence. We celebrate diversity and welcome individuals from all backgrounds—inside and outside education—who bring unique perspectives and ideas to enrich our community. Through meaningful conversations and collaboration, we foster a strong, supportive cohort of educators. At Great Hearts, your passion and expertise will thrive in a supportive and dynamic environment. Learn how you can grow both in mind and heart as an employee of Great Hearts. If you need support with the Careers website, application or the hiring process, please contact us at careers@greathearts.org.
Requires a high school diploma, though an associate degree or 60 college credit hours is preferred. Candidates should have experience in special education and strong communication skills.
Market context
Teaching assistant roles in Arizona are typically in steady demand, especially in K-12 settings that need classroom support, student supervision, and help with instruction. Competition can be strong because employers often look for a high school diploma plus a paraprofessional exam or associate degree, experience with children, and the ability to obtain a Level One IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your documents and clearance status before applying.
