Teacher Aide

About Us:

Victor Association of Cultural and Performing Arts AKA Cobblestone Arts Center is a not-for-profit organization committed to providing compassionate care and support to adults with disabilities. Our goal is to help individuals achieve greater independence, enhance their quality of life, and foster a sense of community. We are looking for a dedicated part-time Teacher Aide to join our team and contribute to the well-being of our participants.

Reports to: On-site Supervisor

Program: Day Hab / Classroom

Location: Farmington, NY – in person

Benefits:

• A fulfilling and impactful role that allows you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults with disabilities.
• Supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Paid time off, 401k matching

The Teacher Aide will support the lead teacher in delivering arts-based lessons, including visual arts, music, drama, and dance, while also attending to the personal needs of each student. You will help create a safe and engaging classroom where students can express themselves, develop new skills, and participate meaningfully in activities. Your role will involve creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere and providing a supportive learning environment. You will work closely with other staff members to ensure the students’ physical, emotional, and social needs are met.

The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities and a compassionate approach to care.

Minimum Education & Experience: High School Diploma or GED is required. Experience working with adults with disabilities, or in a classroom or support setting, is preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Strong interest in the arts and a commitment to using creative activities as a tool for personal development.
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Strong communications skills and the ability to interact respectfully and effectively with students, families, and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Compassionate, patient, and respectful of others' dignity and independence.
• Empathy and a genuine desire to support individuals with disabilities in a compassionate manner.
• Professionalism: dependability and enthusiasm.
• A commitment to promoting inclusivity.
• Ability to handle physical tasks, including lifting and transferring participants.
• Ability and willingness to learn basic personal care needs including toileting. Training will be provided.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the changing needs of individuals with disabilities.

Physical Abilities:

• Ability to safely lift, move, and transfer 50 lbs. or more, requiring core strength for support and movement.
• Standing, walking, and being physically active for extended periods, using back and stomach muscles.
• Constant movement in rooms, hallways, and workspaces, including bending, crouching, and reaching.
• Good vision (close, distance, color, peripheral) and hearing to understand participants and observe details.

Responsibilities:

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Assist the lead teacher in delivering arts-based lessons and activities (e.g., visual arts, music, drama, dance) for adults with disabilities.
• Provide one-on-one or small group support to students, ensuring they can actively engage in creative activities.
• Help implement individualized learning plans and adapt arts activities to meet the personal needs and abilities of each student.
• Provide personal care assistance, if needed, to ensure students’ comfort and participation in the activities.
• Foster a safe, respectful, and fun environment, encouraging self-expression, independence, and creativity.
• Foster a sense of community and teamwork within the classroom.
• Assist with classroom management and maintain a positive, inclusive atmosphere for all students.
• Help prepare materials, set up, and clean up for arts-based projects and activities.
• Collaborate with the lead teacher and other staff to assess students’ progress, provide feedback, motivate students, and build confidence.
• Support students in building life skills, social interactions, and independence through arts-based activities.
• Monitor and respond to students’ physical, emotional, or behavioral needs, providing support in a sensitive and respectful manner.
• Assist with any special accommodation or modifications required to help students participate fully in class activities.
• Assist with student’s personal needs as needed.
• Effectively communicate with students, parents, and staff about progress, expectations, and events.
• Partner with other staff members to ensure that all classrooms are conducted in accordance with safety and cleanliness standards.
• Open to participating in recreational activities and in other teachers’ classes.
• Attend team meetings and participate in staff development opportunities.

Victor Association of Cultural and Performing Arts AKA Cobblestone Arts Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer encouraging individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.

Website: https://www.cobblestoneartscenter.com/

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person