Teaching Assistant

About Us

The House of the Good Shepherd (HGS) has been changing children’s lives for over 150 years. We provide individualized, compassionate care to youth and families through a range of residential, educational, community, and foster care programs across Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, and the North Country. Our agency is built on a foundation of empathy, resilience, and the Sanctuary Model of care, which guides our commitment to healing and hope.

What You’ll Do

As a Teaching Assistant at Tilton School, you’ll play an important role in maintaining a safe, well-planned educational environment. You’ll work directly under the supervision of the classroom teacher, supporting instruction, assisting with classroom management, and helping students achieve both academic and personal growth.

Your responsibilities will include reinforcing lesson plans, adapting instructional materials, assisting with paperwork and documentation, supervising students throughout the day, and occasionally assuming responsibility for the class in the teacher’s absence.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking someone who is patient, dependable, and eager to support students with diverse needs. You should enjoy working collaboratively with teachers and staff, be organized in your approach, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to fostering student growth in both learning and personal development.

• High School Diploma and 18 college credit hours required
• Completion of NYSED Level I Teaching Assistant Certification within the first 90 days of employment
• CPR and First Aid certification required (Training Provided)
• Valid New York State driver’s license required

Key Skills and Attributes

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to maintain a safe, supportive, and structured environment
• Skilled in building warm, nurturing relationships with students
• Commitment to the Sanctuary Model and trauma-informed care practices
• Understanding of child development and ability to adapt to individual needs
• Organized, efficient, and attentive to detail
• Able to learn and apply behavior management techniques through Therapeutic Crisis Intervention training

Why Work with Us?

We believe caring for our staff is just as important as caring for our students. That’s why we offer:

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 403(b) retirement plan with agency match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Opportunities for advancement
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Equal Opportunity Employer

The House of the Good Shepherd is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. HGS encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and those with disabilities. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access throughout the hiring process.