Educational Support Professional; Teaching Assistant Substantially Separate ASD Program

Educational Support Professional (Teaching Assistant) Substantially Separate ASD Program

Starting Date: Aug 31, 2026

Organizational Scope: Reporting directly to building‑based administration and an assigned cooperating teacher(s), and working under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement with Westford Education Association/Unit E, the Educational Support Professional (ESP) advances the mission of WPS by developing curious lifelong learners who are responsible, empathetic members of the community. The ESP fosters inclusive, joyful learning environments that embrace variability and honor diversity.

Position Responsibilities: The ESP plays a vital role in supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth within the educational setting. The ESP works closely with certified teachers to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive. All ESPs are expected to communicate effectively with their cooperating teacher regarding student progress, behavior, and any concerns. ESPs must maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with school policies and legal requirements.

Instructional support may include, but is not limited to:

• Providing one‑on‑one, small group or whole group instruction to students with and without special needs, reinforcing lessons
• Adapting materials as directed by the teacher
• Assisting students with completing assignments, projects, and activities, offering guidance and encouragement
• Implementing instructional strategies and accommodations as directed by the teacher
• Utilizing assistive technology and other specialized equipment to support student learning
• Reading tests aloud, taking notes, and providing other accommodations as directed by the teacher
• Helping students develop organizational and study skills

Behavioral support may include, but is not limited to:

• Assisting the implementation of positive behavior support plans and strategies
• Monitoring and redirecting student behavior, promoting a positive and safe learning environment
• Helping students develop social skills and appropriate interactions with peers
• Providing support during behavioral crisis, following established protocols and training

Overall classroom management support may include, but is not limited to:

• Assisting the teacher with classroom management, organization, and preparation of materials
• Helping set up instructional materials, visual aids, and equipment
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and orderly classroom environment
• Supervising students during transitions, lunch, recess, and other non‑instructional times

Special Education ESP: The Special Education ESP assists the teacher in general daily classroom activities, provides individualized support to special‑needs students, and attends to their physical, emotional health and safety while affirming their abilities and promoting dignity. Under the direction of a certified special education teacher or therapist, the ESP helps implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), fosters a positive and inclusive learning environment, and supports the overall well‑being of students.

ESPs may also collect data on student performance and behavior, assist in tracking progress toward IEP goals, and provide feedback to the teacher.

Personal adaptive daily living skills care, such as supporting personal hygiene, feeding, and dressing, may be required. Depending on the level of care, the ESP may be asked to assist with physical transfer and positioning of students with proper training.

Job Qualifications: The ideal candidate will hold a high school diploma. Further formal education such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree or professional training is preferred. The candidate should possess solid communication and interpersonal skills, ability to relate well with students, staff, administrators, parents/caregivers and the community, patience, empathy, and a genuine interest in working with students with and without special needs, understanding of the unique needs of students with disabilities, ability to work independently and as part of a team, maintain confidentiality, and willingness to participate in required…