SSAS Intructional Assistant I (Dari or Pashto)

Job Description:

This position is funded through the School Support for Afghan Students (SSAS) Grant Program through September 30, 2025, with the possibility of one additional year from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The SSAS Instructional Assistant provides academic and language support for Afghan students, ensuring their successful access to content instruction and English language development. The ideal candidate must be fluent in Dari and/or Pashto and have experience working with English Learner (EL) students, particularly those with limited or interrupted formal education (SLIFE). This position requires in-person attendance. The position reports to the Academic Principal for the International Academy.

Key Responsibilities:

Student Support:

• Assist Afghan students in accessing classroom instruction by providing academic, linguistic, and cultural support.
• Facilitate small-group and one-on-one instruction under the guidance of a classroom teacher.
• Support students in developing English language proficiency while maintaining and valuing their native language skills.
• Provide social-emotional support to help students adjust to their new school environment.

Instructional Support:

• Collaborate with teachers to adapt instructional materials for Afghan students.
• Help administer assessments and monitor students' progress in language and content areas.
• Maintain instructional materials and/or student files/records (e.g. adapting instructional materials, student files, checking papers, attendance, audiovisual equipment, set up art/science projects, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring availability of items and/or providing reliable information.
• Cultural & Family Engagement:
• Act as a liaison between the school and Afghan families, providing interpretation and translation as needed.
• Support family engagement efforts, including parent-teacher conferences, school events, and workshops.
• Help educate staff on cultural considerations when working with Afghan students and families.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Supervise students in various settings, including classrooms, hallways, lunch areas, and school activities.
• Assist with classroom and school-wide administrative tasks as assigned.
• Participate in professional development related to English Learners and cultural responsiveness.
• Other duties as assigned by administrator.

Qualifications:

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred).
• Fluency in Dari and/or Pashto (spoken and written).
• Experience working with multilingual learners or students from refugee backgrounds.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, and families.

Preferred

• Experience in education, social services, or refugee support programs.
• Familiarity with ESOL instructional strategies and the needs of SLIFE students.
• Ability to provide translation and interpretation services for school communications.

Clearances:

• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
• Tuberculosis Skin Test.

Public Health Compliance

• Must follow safety and health protocols.

WP