DC - Teacher Assistant

DescriptionAre you someone who shows up — really shows up — for students who need it most?

At The Children's Guild DC, our Teacher Assistants are the heartbeat of our classrooms. They are the consistent, caring, and steady presence that helps students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn every single day. We are looking for a dedicated, patient, and passionate Teacher Assistant to join our team in Ward 5, Washington, D.C.

Who We Are

The Children's Guild DC (TCG DC) is a free public charter school serving students in Kindergarten through 8th grade in the heart of Ward 5, Washington, D.C. As part of TranZed Alliance, one of the most experienced child-serving nonprofit organizations in the Greater Baltimore/Washington region, we provide a personalized, trauma-informed educational experience for both general education and special needs students.

Our team of special educators, social workers, psychologists, therapists, and support staff work collaboratively every day to ensure every student thrives — academically, socially, emotionally, and developmentally.

The Opportunity

As a Teacher Assistant at TCG DC, you will work side by side with lead teachers and clinical staff to support students with diverse learning, behavioral, and emotional needs throughout the school day. You will:

Support students with diverse learning, behavioral, and developmental needs in the classroom under the direction of the lead teacher

Assist with the delivery of individualized instruction, reinforcing lessons and supporting 1:1 and small group learning

Implement student behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and PBIS strategies consistently throughout the school day

Collect and record behavioral and academic data to support IEP goal monitoring

Use trauma-informed, positive reinforcement strategies to support student regulation and engagement

Help students navigate transitions, routines, and social interactions throughout the day

Assist with de-escalation of students in emotional distress, following established school protocols

Supervise students during non-instructional times including lunch, recess, and transitions

Communicate observations and concerns to the lead teacher and clinical team promptly

Contribute to a safe, structured, and nurturing classroom culture aligned with TCG DC's Transformation Education philosophy

QualificationsWhat We're Looking For

• ✔ High school diploma or GED (required); Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Education, Psychology, or Human Services preferred
• ✔ Experience working with children with disabilities, behavioral challenges, or in a special education setting preferred
• ✔ Familiarity with behavior intervention plans, PBIS, or trauma-informed practices a plus
• ✔ Warm, patient, and genuinely caring approach to working with students with complex needs
• ✔ Ability to remain calm, consistent, and professional under pressure
• ✔ Strong communication and teamwork skills
• ✔ Current CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain upon hire
• ✔ Bilingual candidates strongly encouraged to apply
• Why TCG DC?
• Mission-driven culture — join a team that shows up every day for students in one of D.C.'s most vibrant communities
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision
• Ongoing professional development in trauma-informed care, PBIS, brain-based learning, de-escalation, and more
• Supportive, collaborative team environment with strong teacher and clinical mentorship
• Career growth — many of our teachers and clinicians started as Teacher Assistants
• Free breakfast and lunch for all students
• Meaningful work — your presence and consistency make a difference in a child's life every single day
• Ready to Make a Difference?
• If you are a caring, dependable professional who believes every child deserves a safe, supportive, and nurturing classroom, we want to hear from you.