System- Educational Assistant; Sign Language

Position: Permanent System-Based Educational Assistant (Sign Language Required)
Location: St. Catharines

Permanent System-Based Educational Assistant – American Sign Language (Sign Language) Required

District School Board of Niagara

The DSBN is a supportive, innovative community that works to provide the best educational experience for our students. We serve over 40,000 students across almost 100 elementary and secondary schools throughout Niagara.

Schedule and Compensation

Level 7: $28.29 – $33.38 per hour

35 hours per week – 10‑month position

Position Summary
Under the direction of the Principal, the Educational Assistant is a valued member of the school team, responsible for supporting students with a wide range of special education needs, including physical disabilities, deaf/hard of hearing or visual impairments, behavioral challenges, social and emotional needs, and cognitive or developmental delays. This role promotes student success, well‑being, and safety within the classroom and school environment.

Key Responsibilities

Provide classroom support and implement IEP accommodations, behavior/safety plans, and instructional strategies.

Collaborate with teachers and the school‑based team to monitor student needs, communicate progress, and maintain a safe learning environment.

Support students with special needs, including deaf/hard of hearing or visually impaired students.

Differentiate and plan supports, incorporating ABA strategies to promote independence.

Assist students with personal care needs such as hygiene, toileting, feeding, and mobility support, following established guidelines.

Implement therapist‑directed programs (e.g., SLP/OT/PT) and support the development of social, emotional, and life skills.

Participate in professional learning through training, workshops, and in‑service opportunities.

Maintain current knowledge of special education practices and set goals for continuous growth.

Education, Experience and Qualifications

Post‑secondary education in a related field (e.g., Educational Support, Developmental Services, Child and Youth Care) or equivalent experience.

ASL Level 3 qualification;
Level 1 or 2 candidates must be willing to complete additional coursework.

Completed BMS training and demonstrates ability to apply strategies in a respectful, consistent, and supportive manner.

Valid First Aid/CPR certification.

Experience working with deaf/hard of hearing or visually impaired individuals, preferably in a school setting.

Experience supporting individuals with diverse learning and developmental needs, including speech and language challenges.

Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills.

Experienced working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Understanding of inclusive practices, equity, and accessibility principles.

Ability to respond calmly and effectively in dynamic and high‑needs environments.

Must be able to physically assist children as required.

Conditions of Employment

Agreement to comply with the Board’s policies, procedures and code of conduct.

Complete an annual offence declaration process.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
The District School Board of Niagara is committed to equity and inclusion in the recruitment and hiring of its employees, reflecting the diversity of our community and student body. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and members of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Interview and employment accommodations will be provided in the selection process as required by human rights provisions.

Applicants should notify the Board in advance to discuss accommodations.

Legal and Privacy Statement
Personal information gathered during the recruitment process is collected, used, and disclosed in compliance with the Education Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.E.2, and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The information is used solely for determining eligibility for the position and related purposes. For questions regarding the collection, use, or disclosure of personal information, applicants may contact the Freedom of Information Coordinator at the District School Board of Niagara.

Land Acknowledgement
The land on which we gather is the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today.

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