Teaching Assistant

Job Title: Teaching Assistant

Location: La Porte, IN 46350

Engagement Type: Contract 6 months

Position Overview

The Teaching Assistant will support the Education Department within a juvenile correctional facility by supervising students in a classroom environment during the absence of the classroom teacher. This role plays a critical part in maintaining classroom structure, supporting student learning, and ensuring a safe, positive, and productive educational environment. The Teaching Assistant reports directly to the School Principal and works with minimal supervision while collaborating with educators and multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise students in the classroom during the absence of the assigned teacher.
• Take attendance and monitor student behavior, assignments, and daily academic records.
• Provide guidance and instructional support to students based on lesson plans left by the classroom teacher.
• Maintain effective classroom management to promote safety, structure, and continuity of learning.
• Monitor and evaluate student participation, engagement, and academic progress.
• Prepare clear, accurate, and timely written reports in compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
• Participate in multidisciplinary treatment team meetings and professional development sessions.
• Collaborate with educators, facility staff, and other departments to enhance the learning environment.
• Adhere strictly to policies related to safety, confidentiality, and incident prevention.
• Attend and successfully complete all required training, certifications, and onboarding requirements.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to implement daily and weekly lesson plans in the absence of an educator.
• Ability to create and maintain a positive, structured learning environment supportive of student growth and development.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment and accept supervision and constructive feedback.
• Willingness and ability to complete all required training, certifications, and background checks.
• Ability to pass drug screening, TB test, fingerprinting, and all required DOC/DCS background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Substitute Teaching Permit (preferred; required to obtain if not already held).
• Prior experience working with students in an educational or institutional setting.