Building Substitute/Teacher Assistant - Immediate Opening

The Building Substitute/Teacher Assistant at Thales Academy is responsible for substituting in classrooms during teacher absences, assisting in Teacher Assistant duties when not subbing, implementing the approved curriculum, and collaborating with fellow educators to enhance teaching strategies. This role also includes promoting strong communication with parents and supporting their involvement in the school community.

To qualify for the Building Substitute/Teacher Assistant position at Thales Academy, candidates should have an education degree. While previous teaching experience, particularly in Direct Instruction, is preferred, it is not a strict requirement. The focus is on finding a passionate individual with high energy and strong organizational skills.

Thales Academy encourages the continuous professional growth of its staff, offering various professional development opportunities tailored for the Building Substitute/Teacher Assistant role. Engaging in these opportunities helps foster teaching skills and stay updated on effective instructional practices.

The Building Substitute/Teacher Assistant plays a vital role in maintaining effective classroom management at Thales Academy by implementing the curriculum as designed and communicating clearly and positively with students. This position helps ensure continuity in learning even during teacher absences, providing a stable environment for students.

A Building Substitute/Teacher Assistant at Thales Academy enjoys a range of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance options, paid time off, a 401k plan with employer matching, and a flexible spending account (FSA). These benefits contribute to the overall well-being and job satisfaction of our team members.

When answering this question, highlight any relevant experiences you have, such as tutoring, volunteering, or teaching. Focus on specific instances where you positively impacted a child’s learning or behavior.

Discuss your strategies for maintaining classroom order, such as setting clear expectations, using positive reinforcement, and remaining calm. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed difficult situations in the past.

Research the curriculum and values of Thales Academy prior to the interview. Discuss how their emphasis on Direct Instruction and a Classical Curriculum aligns with your teaching philosophy and how you can contribute to its successful implementation.

Emphasize the importance of communication and partnership with parents. Provide examples of how you've engaged with families in previous roles, such as regular updates, inviting feedback, and creating opportunities for parental involvement.

Talk about your approach to teamwork and collaboration, highlighting any experience you've had with developing lesson plans or sharing resources with colleagues. Mention your willingness to participate in planning meetings and professional development.

Describe a specific lesson, focusing on your objectives, engagement strategies, and outcomes. Detail how you assessed student understanding and adjusted your approach accordingly.

Discuss your methods for creating an inclusive and supportive classroom atmosphere, such as establishing rules, fostering respect among students, and using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.

Share your passion for education and how Thales Academy’s mission resonates with your own beliefs about teaching and learning. Explain how this role fits into your career aspirations.

Outline your time management strategies, including prioritizing tasks and utilizing tools or methods that help you stay organized, ensuring that you can effectively handle multiple responsibilities throughout the day.

Discuss your understanding of the lead teacher's objectives and how you would align your support to help them achieve those goals, whether through assisting with classroom activities or contributing to lesson planning.