Educational Assistant (MAC Islamic School Calgary)

Job Summary

Educational Assistants (EAs) are integral members of the school’s educational team, providing essential support that contributes to student success. They assist homeroom teachers in instructional duties, working under the supervision of the Vice Principal and following directions from the homeroom teacher to support individual and group learning.

EAs are assigned to a homeroom class and its students rather than to a specific teacher. They collaborate with homeroom and subject teachers to create a positive learning environment and facilitate student engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities

EAs perform a range of tasks, including but not limited to:

• Assisting in classrooms, the library, workshops, and laboratories.
• Supporting student supervision.
• Preparing and organizing teaching materials as directed by the homeroom teacher.
• Assisting with maintaining student records.
• Supporting homeroom teachers in achieving instructional, social, behavioral, and spiritual goals.
• Attending to students' physical needs.
• Performing additional support duties as needed.

Work Schedule

The EA’s schedule is determined by the supervising teacher based on school requirements. Start and finish times, as well as lunch breaks, may vary depending on the specific needs of the homeroom or subject teacher.

Performance Expectations

Performance evaluations will be conducted at the end of Term 1 and Term 3 by the Vice Principal/Administrator. The following categories outline key expectations for EAs:

1. Islamic Understanding, Behavior, and Contribution

• Adheres to the Islamic dress code as outlined in the Employment Contract.
• Demonstrates appropriate Islamic behavior and attitude within the school community.
• Respects diverse Fiqh opinions while maintaining a balanced understanding of Islam.
• Contributes to the school’s Islamic environment.
• Supports the school's mission of Islamic education.

2. Professional Behavior

• Fosters a respectful atmosphere for students and staff.
• Maintains ethical conduct and confidentiality.
• Manages time effectively with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrates responsibility in attendance and scheduling.
• Resolves conflicts professionally, escalating concerns when necessary.
• Participates in school activities and contributes positively to the school environment.

3. Rapport with Students

• Engages students with enthusiasm.
• Demonstrates patience and understanding.
• Encourages student independence.
• Treats students fairly, respecting their physical, social, psychological, and spiritual development.
• Maintains cooperative relationships with students.
• Responds appropriately to student interactions.

4. Team Support

• Collaborates effectively within school teams.
• Communicates professionally with staff, administrators, and parents.
• Shares relevant information in meetings and conferences.
• Uses established communication systems (e.g., logs, reports) for monitoring and discussion.
• Engages with parents as directed by the homeroom teacher.

5. Instructional Support

• Assists students with classwork, reinforcing lessons taught by the teacher.
• Monitors independent and small-group learning activities.
• Conducts reading and listening exercises.
• Provides instructional support when needed.
• Adjusts materials according to teacher guidance.
• Assists students in achieving academic goals.
• Maintains student records as directed.
• Ensures a safe and supportive learning environment.

6. Social and Behavioral Support

• Implements consistent behavioral expectations.
• Provides feedback and reinforcement based on the teacher’s classroom management plan.
• Encourages positive behaviors and redirects inappropriate conduct.
• Supports peer cooperation and teamwork among students.
• Assists in monitoring disciplinary measures.
• Maintains student behavior records as required.

7. Non-Instructional Support

• Prepares instructional materials such as games, posters, and booklets.
• Designs bulletin board displays.
• Assists with clerical tasks (e.g., copying, recording, emailing).
• Provides supervision during recess, lunch, and bus duty.
• Assists with students' physical needs (e.g., feeding, mobility, dressing).
• Administers medication as needed, following school policy.

Qualifications and Experience

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Education: High school diploma with completion of an approved training course in the field.
• Experience: Prior experience working with children or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Additional Skills: Specific special skills or training may be required.

Equal Opportunity Statement

MAC is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities to all, without discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or any other protected status. Accommodations are available upon request during the hiring process.