Instructional Assistant

START DATE - July 20th 

JOB TYPE: Hourly, In-person. Estimated to be 25-29 hours weekly with additional hours when needed for a substitute Guide role. 

JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Instructional Assistant partners with Studio Guides and the Student Support Team to help all learners thrive in a learner-centered environment. This role provides academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and instructional support while fostering learner independence, curiosity, and confidence. The Instructional Assistant works collaboratively to ensure learners have access to meaningful learning experiences and appropriate supports.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Learner Support

• Provide one-on-one, small-group, and in-class support for all learners, including those with disabilities, by assisting with instruction, accommodations, and individualized learning goals.
• Encourage learner independence by providing support that builds confidence, problem-solving skills, and self-advocacy.
• Support learners in developing positive social-emotional regulation strategies and help maintain a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment.
• Assist with Tier 2 and Tier 3 intervention support under the direction of instructional staff.
• Supervise learners during transitions, lunch, outdoor learning, and other school activities as needed.

2. Studio Assistance

• Collaborate with Studio Guides, and the Special Education Guide to implement instructional strategies and support the diverse needs of learners.
• Serve as the primary studio facilitator during planned or unplanned staff absences, ensuring continuity of learning by implementing lesson plans, maintaining studio routines, and supervising learners in accordance with Phoenix Modern expectations.
• Demonstrate flexibility by providing support across studios as staffing and learner needs require.

3. Personal Care

• Assist learners with personal, physical, or medical care needs, when required, while maintaining learner dignity, safety, and confidentiality.

4. Data Collection

• Collect and document learner progress, observations, behavior, and intervention data to support instructional planning, IEP implementation, and ongoing learner growth.

5. Communication

• Maintain open and professional communication with Studio Guides, specialists, school leadership, and families, as appropriate, regarding learner progress, challenges, and support strategies.
• Maintain confidentiality of learner information in accordance with school policies and applicable laws.

6. Professional Responsibilities

• Attend staff meetings, professional development sessions, and required trainings.
• Demonstrate flexibility, professionalism, and a commitment to Phoenix Modern's mission and learner-centered philosophy.
• Perform other duties as assigned that support the successful operation of the school.

WHO WE ARE
Phoenix Modern is reimagining the design and approach of school for learners ages 5–14. We value wonder, love, joy, and growth, and believe every learner deserves an educational experience that develops the skills, mindset, and character needed for positive, healthy, and productive engagement in the world.

Our instructional approach provides learners with meaningful opportunities to take ownership of their learning and actively shape their community. On a typical day, learners engage in self-paced core skill development, collaborative workshops, guided discussions, and interdisciplinary projects that foster curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. Our mixed-age elementary and middle school studios serve approximately 20–25 learners across two grade levels, creating a collaborative and supportive learning community.

Learn more at phoenixmodern.org 

Before applying, please be sure to:
1. Watch video
2. Explore our website, including descriptions of our program and blog post.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required (Associate degree or higher preferred).
• Experience working with children, preferably in an educational setting.
• Experience supporting learners with disabilities or diverse learning needs is preferred.
• Understanding of learner development and the ability to support a variety of instructional and behavioral needs.
• Ability to implement accommodations, follow IEPs, and support instructional strategies under the direction of certified staff.
• Ability and willingness to confidently facilitate a studio and implement lesson plans during Guide absences.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Patience, empathy, flexibility, and a growth mindset.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding learner information.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card 
• Compliance with all background checks and employment requirements.

WORKING CONDITIONS
The Instructional Assistant works on Phoenix Modern's campus following the school calendar and daily schedule. This role requires active engagement throughout the school day, including standing, walking, bending, lifting classroom materials, and supervising learners in both indoor and outdoor environments. The position includes supporting learners with a variety of academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and physical needs while contributing t