SRCE-24-553, CECGA , Teacher Assistant

The Strait Regional (0052) invites applications from qualified candidates for the posted vacancy.  In accordance with the CUPE (3100) Collective Agreement , senior qualified candidates will be given preference. Candidates who apply for more than one position, may rank their applications in order of preference. Please also indicate if you wish to be considered for subsequent arising vacancies.

As part of the public education system in Nova Scotia, the Strait Regional Centre for Education (SRCE) was established on April 1, 2018, to deliver the public school program focusing on supporting student learning, achievement, well-being and overall success.  The Strait Regional Centre for Education, with the support of approximately 1,050 employees, works diligently to achieve its mission “to empower our children and youth, within safe, equitable and inclusive environments to embrace a changing world as responsible, contributing and successful lifelong learners.”  In 2022-2023, the SRCE operates 20 schools with approximately 5,931 students; and approximately 369 children are attending pre-primary programs at 14 school locations.  Located in the northeastern part of Nova Scotia, the Strait Regional Centre for Education’s jurisdiction encompasses the counties of Antigonish, Guysborough, Inverness and Richmond, an area of approximately 11,000 square kilometres with a population of 53,742 (Census 2021).

The Teacher Assistant falls within the CUPE Local 955 job classification. Salary and Benefits information for this position can be accessed by clicking this link CUPE Collective Agreement 2023-24.indd (srce.ca)

Work Schedule: 5.5 hours/day 

Deadline for Applications:  07/01/2024,  at 11:59 pm.

Effective Dates:   09/03/2024    

Teacher Assistant

Job Responsibilities:

Personal Care: Under the direction of the supervising teacher and/or school team, the Teacher Assistant will:

• Assist students with feeding, with toileting needs and personal hygiene as required;

• Administer medication and carry out medical procedures under the direction of the school principal in accordance with Regional Centre for Education policy and the Department of Education and the Department of Health's policies and protocols on administering  medication to students;

• Assist students to move about during the school day, including lifting and positioning students, exercising and supporting as outlined in their Individualized Program Plan (IPP) or physiotherapy/occupational therapy plan, assist when embarking and disembarking from transportation vehicles, and accompany students to community based educational programs as appropriate;

• Supervise students to ensure a safe environment;

• Assist the students in the operation of support equipment as needed;

• Assist students in dressing and undressing as required.

Behavior Management Support: Under the direction of the supervising teacher and/or school team, the Teacher Assistant will:

• Assist in promoting student’s emotional growth, well-being, and independence;

• Encourage the development of student dignity and self-esteem;

• Facilitate positive interactions among all students;

• Help motivate students and encourage student participation;

• Assist in the implementation of behavior management plans as developed by the teacher and/or school team.

Support for Instructional Program: Under the direction of the supervising teacher and/or school team, the Teacher Assistant will:

• Assist students in following programs, strategies, exercises and materials identified /developed and introduced by the teacher;

• Assist the teacher(s) in the preparation of material;

• Provide feedback to the supervisory teacher on his/her observations of students;

• Accompany students to and from community work placements and provide support within these programs, as necessary;

• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

* High School Diploma or equivalent;

* Teacher assistant training through a recognized diploma or certificate program, or an equivalent training program (i.e. - CCA, LPN), (A recognized program will include a personal care course.);

* A school practicum which was organized by the institution of the diploma program, or the equivalent in personal care experience working in a residential group home setting or personal care setting;

* Ability to perform all the duties of this job, including the personal and physical care of students;

* Current certification in CPR and First Aid or willing to obtain prior to employment;

* Current Non-violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) certification (desirable);

* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills;

* Education and training in the use of assistive technology, including computers;

* Experience and demonstrated ability in managing children or youth with exceptional needs.

Your application must include at least three (3) work-related references; one must be your most recent supervisor.    The Strait Regional Centre for Education appreciates your expression of interest for employment.  Please note that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. All candidates short listed for interviews will have references check prior to being interviewed.  Candidates can check on the status of their applications in Successfactors under My Applications.

 All employees of the Strait Regional Centre for Education must provide a current (within the last 3 months), and clear Criminal Record Check-Vulnerable Sector and Child Abuse Registry prior to employment with the Strait Regional Centre for Education