FT days
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.
QualificationsEducation & Experience Requirements:
1. High School Diploma and 18 college credit hours.
2. Completion of New York State Education Department (NYSED) Level I Teaching Assistant Certification within the first 90 days of employment at the Tilton School.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies:
1. Commitment to following and embracing the Seven Commitments of our Sanctuary Model.
2. Good verbal and written communication skills.
3. Organized and efficient.
4. Understanding of basic needs and development issues of children in a way that promotes growth and respects individuality.
5. Asks age and developmentally appropriate questions and actively listens to children’s responses.
6. Develops a warm, positive, nurturing relationship with each child.
7. Follows mandated reporting requirements regarding child abuse and neglect.
8. Practices infection control, including appropriate hand washing procedures.
9. Uses observations as a way to “get to know” children – their interests and developmental levels.
10. Interacts with children during meal and snack times, promoting appropriate social behavior.
11. Adapts activities and environments to meet the special needs and situations of individual children.
12. CPR and First Aid is required.
13. Valid New York State Driver’s license.
Skills Required
- High School Diploma
- Minimum 18 college credit hours
- NYSED Level I Teaching Assistant Certification (complete within first 90 days)
- CPR and First Aid certification
- Valid New York State driver’s license
- Commitment to Sanctuary Model Seven Commitments
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Organized and efficient work habits
- Understanding of children’s developmental needs and ability to adapt activities
- Knowledge of mandated reporting requirements regarding child abuse and neglect
- Ability to practice infection control (hand washing, etc.)
- Ability to build warm, positive, nurturing relationships with children
What We Do
The House of the Good Shepherd is a comprehensive human service agency based in Utica, New York, founded in 1872. The organization provides treatment, education, and support services for children and families, including foster care, counseling, and residential programs. Its mission is to help those struggling with serious emotional, social, and behavioral problems discover their ability to succeed and lead wholesome lives.
