Job Description
Who We Are
John Rex Charter Schools is a dynamic, community-embedded public charter school located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. We leverage downtown partnerships, collaborative learning environments, and our belief in the whole child to create an innovative educational experience that elevates every learner.
Our "John Rex Way" is rooted in deeply held beliefs:
• Belonging and community:
We believe learning begins with belonging; in classrooms, in community, and in relationships.
• People and excellence:
We believe our people are our greatest strength and through collaboration, clarity, and growth, we elevate our collective impact.
• Learning and growth:
We believe every student can achieve at high levels when learning is engaging, challenging, and student-centered.
• Joy and purpose:
We believe joy is essential to learning as it fuels curiosity, connection, and pride in our work.
Our core values - Relationships, Rigor, and Relevance - guide our academic and cultural approach. They come to life through project-based and cooperative learning, joyful classrooms, strong community partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to each student’s potential.
Who You Are
You are a compassionate, patient, and student-centered team member who believes every student deserves meaningful support, strong relationships, and access to high-quality learning experiences. You are committed to helping students with diverse learning needs experience success, belonging, and confidence in the classroom.
You are someone who:
• Builds positive and supportive relationships with students.
• Demonstrates patience, empathy, and consistency.
• Works collaboratively with teachers, specialists, and support staff.
• Supports students with academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
• Maintains professionalism and confidentiality in all interactions.
• Brings flexibility, reliability, and a willingness to support wherever needed.
What You’ll Do
The Special Education Teacher Assistant supports students receiving special education services by assisting with classroom instruction, interventions, accommodations, and daily student support. Working under the guidance of the Special Education Teacher and school leadership, this role helps create an inclusive and supportive learning environment aligned with the John Rex Way.
The Special Education Teacher Assistant plays an important role in helping students access instruction, build independence, and experience success within the classroom and school community.
Core Responsibilities
Student Instructional Support
• Support students individually or in small groups during instructional activities.
• Reinforce academic concepts and classroom learning under teacher direction.
• Assist with implementation of accommodations and modifications outlined in student plans.
• Support differentiated instruction and intervention activities.
Student Behavioral & Social-Emotional Support
• Help reinforce classroom expectations and positive behavior systems.
• Support students in developing independence, self-regulation, and social skills.
• Assist students during transitions, routines, and unstructured times as needed.
• Provide encouragement and support to help students remain engaged and successful.
Classroom & Program Support
• Assist with preparation of instructional materials and classroom resources.
• Help maintain an organized, structured, and supportive learning environment.
• Support classroom activities, projects, and instructional routines.
Collaboration & Communication
• Work closely with the Special Education Teacher and classroom teachers to support student needs.
• Communicate observations and concerns regarding student progress or behavior.
• Collaborate with support staff and specialists as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student information and records.
Supervision & School Support
• Assist with student supervision during transitions, lunch, recess, field trips, and school activities.
• Help maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for students.
• Support school-wide activities and events as needed.
Leadership Profile
The ideal Special Education Teacher Assistant is:
• A compassionate and dependable support professional.
• A patient relationship-builder who works well with students of diverse needs.
• Flexible, organized, and calm under pressure.
• Comfortable supporting both academic and behavioral needs.
• Committed to helping students experience growth and success.
Qualifications
One of the following:
• At least 48 hours of college credit
• Or an Associate degree (or higher)
• Or successful completion of the Work Keys test
• Or successful completion of the ParaPro test
• AND experience working with children or in an educational setting preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers and staff.
• Commitment to the mission and values of John Rex Charter Schools.
Contract and Work Environment
• 10-month instructional position aligned to the academic calendar.
• Reports directly to the Campus Principal and works under guidance of classroom teachers.
Key Impact Areas
• Positive and well-organized classroom environments.
• Increased student engagement and support.
• Effective collaboration with teachers and school staff.
• A school culture rooted in relationships, rigor, and relevance.