Part-Time Assistant Teacher
About Us:
Desert Sun Ranch Academy is a small private learning center in Queen Creek, Arizona, dedicated to providing individualized education to students with special needs in academic grades K-5.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Assistant Teacher to join our team. This position begins as part-time, with approximately 12-15 weekly hours, and offers the potential for increased hours as enrollment grows. For the right candidate, this role may evolve into a full-time teaching position in the next academic year.
Key Responsibilities:
- Instructional Support: Implement small group instruction (up to 5-8 students) as directed by the lead teacher.
- Occupational Therapy Support: Follow strategies directed by the occupational therapist and adhere to each student’s Individualized Support Plan.
- Supervision: Oversee students during leisure activities and ensure safety during interactions with a variety of farm animals by practicing basic safety protocols.
- Personal Hygiene Assistance: Assist students with personal hygiene needs, including bathroom hygiene, as required.
- Behavioral Support: Anticipate and respond appropriately to behavioral needs in a neuro-affirming manner.
- Physical Requirements: Be capable of lifting children up to 75 pounds and remain on your feet throughout the day.
- Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively in our small team environment, including participating in basic cleaning and organizing of the facility on a rotating schedule and / or as needed.
Qualifications:
- Must possess or be able to obtain a Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card with an IVP number and pass a background check.
- At least 2 years of post-high school education in elementary education, child development, or special education strongly preferred.
- A minimum of 2 years full-time work experience in education, particularly with students with special needs.
- Must be open and willing to stay current on immunizations.
- Ideal Candidate: Holds or is pursuing K-8 special education certification and is interested in growing into a full-time teaching position.
Preferred Attributes:
- Experience and comfort with farm animals.
- Not allergic to farm life or animals - examples include hay, dust, animals
- Ability to work collaboratively and adapt to the needs of a small, tight-knit team, including light cleaning duties.
- Passionate about supporting neurodiverse learners and their families.
If you are an enthusiastic and caring educator who wants to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply!