Position Title: Primary Instructional Assistant (Grades 1–2)
Reports To: Principal

 

Position Summary
The Primary Instructional Assistant supports teaching and learning in 1st and 2nd-grade classrooms by working under the direction of the classroom teacher to reinforce instruction, support student engagement, and help create a positive and structured learning environment. This role plays a key part in helping students build foundational literacy, math, and social skills.

 

Key Responsibilities

Instructional Support
? Assist the classroom teacher in delivering daily instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics
? Work with small groups of students to reinforce grade-level skills and concepts
? Provide individualized support to students as directed by the teacher
? Support implementation of high-quality instructional resources (HQIRs)
? Reinforce learning goals and success criteria during lessons
? Support students in completing assignments and tasks

 

Student Engagement & Support
? Promote active student participation in learning
? Support students in developing independence and confidence
? Reinforce classroom expectations, routines, and procedures
? Assist with transitions between activities
? Encourage positive peer interactions and collaboration
? Provide support for students with diverse learning needs

 

Literacy & Math Support
? Assist with early literacy instruction (phonics, fluency, comprehension, writing)
? Support math skill development (number sense, operations, problem solving)
? Reinforce foundational academic skills through practice and guided activities
? Help prepare and organize instructional materials

 

Classroom Environment
? Help maintain a positive, safe, and orderly classroom environment
? Support behavior expectations and classroom management strategies
? Supervise students during classroom and non-classroom activities (e.g., recess, lunch, hallway transitions)
? Assist with the organization of classroom materials and learning spaces

 

Data & Progress Monitoring
? Assist with informal assessments and progress monitoring activities
? Observe and report student progress and needs to the teacher
? Support data collection as directed (reading levels, skill tracking, etc.)
? Help prepare materials for assessments and instructional activities

 

Collaboration & Communication
? Work closely with classroom teachers and grade-level teams
? Participate in team meetings as requested
? Communicate effectively with staff regarding student needs and progress
? Maintain confidentiality of student information

 

Qualifications
? High school diploma or equivalent required (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred)
? Experience working with children, preferably in an elementary setting
? Basic understanding of early literacy and math development (preferred)
? Strong communication and interpersonal skills
? Ability to work collaboratively with teachers and students
? Ability to follow directions and adapt to classroom needs

 

Physical Requirements
? Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the school day
? Ability to sit on the floor or at student-level seating
? Ability to assist with supervision and classroom activities

 

Preferred Skills
? Experience supporting early elementary students (grades 1–2)
? Familiarity with phonics-based reading instruction
? Ability to support small group instruction
? Strong organizational skills
? Patience, flexibility, and a positive attitude

 

Work Environment
? Elementary school classroom setting
? Active, student-centered environment
? Requires flexibility and responsiveness to student and classroom needs 

 

Performance Expectations
? Demonstrates professionalism and reliability
? Builds positive relationships with students and staff
? Supports high expectations for student learning and behavior
? Actively contributes to a positive classroom culture
? Follows direction and supports instructional priorities

 

Goal of the Position
To support the academic and social development of 1st and 2nd-grade students by reinforcing high-quality instruction, building foundational skills, and contributing to a positive and engaging learning environment.

 

For more information, please contact Dr. Leann Pickerill at 859-987-2166.