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What does an Instructional Assistant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

An instructional assistant is a person who helps a teacher with classroom activities and instruction.

Instructional Assistant job duties include:

  • Assisting teachers with lesson preparation and execution
  • Helping to create a positive and engaging learning environment in the classroom
  • Working with individual students or small groups of students on academic or behavioral goals
  • Providing one-on-one support and assistance to students with special needs
  • Monitoring student progress and keeping accurate records
  • Communicating regularly with parents and guardians about student progress
  • Attending staff meetings and professional development workshops
  • Assisting with classroom management and behavior issues
  • Maintaining a clean and organized classroom

Instructional Assistant Job Requirements

An Instructional Assistant typically works in a school setting, providing support to teachers and students. They may be responsible for working with students one-on-one or in small groups, helping them to catch up or keep up with the class. Instructional Assistants may also be responsible for preparing materials, setting up equipment, and cleaning up after activities. Most Instructional Assistants have at least a high school diploma, although some positions may require postsecondary education or certification. Many Instructional Assistants have experience working with children in a variety of settings, such as daycare, camp, or after-school programs.

Instructional Assistant Skills

  • Patience
  • Creativity
  • Organization
  • Communication
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Classroom Management
  • Lesson Planning
  • Behavior Management
  • Differentiated Instruction
  • Technology Integration
  • Special Education Knowledge
  • IEP Knowledge

Related: Top Instructional Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Instructional Assistant

An instructional assistant helps teachers in a variety of ways. They may work with students one-on-one or in small groups to help them catch up with their classmates, or they may lead whole-classroom activities. They might also help with grading papers and preparing materials for lessons. No matter what their specific duties are, instructional assistants play an important role in helping students succeed.

If you’re interested in becoming an instructional assistant, there are a few things you need to do. First, you will need to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. Many instructional assistants also have some college experience, although it is not always required. It is important to have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as patience and a good sense of humor. You should also be comfortable working with technology, as many instructional assistants use computers and other digital tools to help with their work.

Once you have the necessary qualifications, the next step is to find a job. Many school districts list open positions on their websites, or you can search for jobs on job boards like Indeed or Monster. Once you find a position that interests you, be sure to read the job description carefully and make sure you meet all of the requirements before applying.

If you’re selected for an interview, congratulations! This is your chance to show the employer why you’re the best candidate for the job. Be prepared to talk about your education and experience, as well as your skills and qualities that make you a good fit for the role of instructional assistant. After the interview, all you can do is wait patiently and hope for the best. If you’re offered the job, congratulations! You’re on your way to a rewarding career helping students achieve their goals.

Related: Instructional Assistant Resume Example

Related: Instructional Assistant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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