Instructional Assistant

Grades 6-8 | East Bay Innovation Academy

 

About East Bay Innovation Academy

East Bay Innovation Academy (EBIA) is a public charter school in Oakland, CA serving students in grades 6-8. Our mission is to prepare a diverse group of students to succeed in college and to become thoughtful, engaged citizens who are leaders and innovators in a 21st-century global world. Through personalization, project-based learning, and the integration of technology, EBIA engages students in meaningful work that develops the competencies necessary for success in college, career, and civic life.

 

Our collaborative, interdisciplinary model reflects the rich racial, cultural, and socio-economic diversity of Oakland. We serve a vibrant student body that is approximately 40% Hispanic/Latino, 27% Black, 16% White, and 8% Two or More Races. Our commitment to equity is central to our work: approximately 25% of our students are individuals with disabilities, and our student body reflects the rich linguistic diversity of Oakland, with a substantial portion of our community identifying as Multilingual Learners.

 

Position Overview & Reporting Structure 

Under the direction of the Lead Education Specialist, the Instructional Assistant will assist classroom teachers and the special education team by performing a variety of instructional support duties. You will work with individual students or small groups within the special education setting or general education classroom. These duties are designed to complement the instructional program and maximize learning opportunities for students. You will also assist in establishing and implementing appropriate classroom and school-wide behavior supports while executing routine clerical tasks.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Work with students in small groups or in one-on-one assignments to tutor, reinforce, and follow up on learning activities in core academic, language, and specialized subject areas.

• Read, calculate, and perform routine middle school math problems to accurately assist students with their coursework.

• Assist classroom teachers in creating curriculum modifications. Provide testing accommodations, including supervising students completing tests in a separate location or during an extended time.

• Partner with the education teams to collect real-time academic and behavioral data, ensuring accurate tracking of IEP goals and daily student performance.

• Concentrate for extended periods to review and correct student work assignments, execute clerical tasks, and memorize and recall specific student needs, names, and accommodations.

• Under the supervision and guidance of the Lead Education Specialist, communicate professionally and empathetically with parents and guardians regarding daily student academic progress and behavioral updates.

• Assist in implementing Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) utilizing approved positive reinforcement strategies and behavior modifications.

• Analyze real-time behavioral challenges, generate alternative support strategies on the fly, and manage the stress of typical middle school dynamics while maintaining a calm, supportive demeanor.

• Facilitate social interactions and foster the development of positive relationships between students with disabilities and their non-disabled peers. Model appropriate behavior and provide ongoing emotional support.

• Maintain focus, adaptability, and a positive attitude in a bustling middle school environment subject to constant interruptions, high energy, and visual/auditory distractions.

• Prepare, set up, and maintain instructional materials. Lift and carry classroom equipment and supplies (up to 20 lbs) as needed. Access and seamlessly utilize instructional technology (e.g., Google Suite, Chromebooks).

• Support students to be active, safe participants during field trips, school assemblies, and community-based life skills activities (e.g., using public transportation, ordering food) as directed by the Education Specialist.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and cooperative learning environment, adhering to all EBIA health and safety guidelines as outlined by local public health agencies.

• Manage the normal stress of school deadlines and work standards, ensuring students transition smoothly between classes and activities.

• Perform other duties as assigned

 

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.

• Experience working directly with adolescent-age students in an academic or behavioral support setting required.

• Strong ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and communities.

• Experience working with students with IEPs preferred.

• Background in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) preferred.

• Bilingual fluency in Spanish preferred.

 

We will begin reviewing applications for this position starting July 27, 2026.