Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Who We Need

Abilities First is seeking a 1:1 Teacher Aide in our Pre-School Program located in New Windsor, NY. This position attends to the educational, physical, social and emotional needs of the student while assisting the Classroom Teacher and Teacher Assistant in the implementation of students’ IEP goals.

Schedule:

Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 3:00pm; 32.5 hours per week, 48 weeks per year. This position follows the school calendar (September – June), with a 6-week summer program.

Pay Range: $16.88- $17.88

Responsibilities:

The 1:1 Teacher Aide attends to the educational, physical, social and emotional needs of the students while assisting the Classroom Teacher and Teaching Assistant in the implementation of students’ IEP goals.

• Assists in the classroom to conduct individual and group activities.
• Assists in the organization and arrangement of the classroom in order to provide a conductive learning environment.
• Attend therapy sessions with student to allow for appropriate carryover in the classroom.
• Escorts and assists students (via wheelchair, walker, etc.) to and from school buses while providing opportunities for students’ increased independence in mobility and orientation.
• Perform wheelchair/equipment transporting, transferring and lifting.
• Toilet children and use appropriate adaptive equipment if necessary.
• Change clothing when wet or soiled.
• Sets out lunches and adaptive feeding equipment, cut up or mash food as required, feed students following OT procedures, and provide opportunities for students’ increased independence in meal preparation.
• Set up computers, communication device systems and related adaptive equipment.

Perks & Benefits:

• Time to Recharge – Personal, sick, and holidays built around the school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered
• Plan for The Future – 401(k) with employer match and employer-paid life insurance
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and online training through the College of Direct Support (and to boost your earning potential)
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Exclusive Extras – Employee discounts with Verizon, AT&T, Royal Carting, and more

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Experience within early childhood and special education preferred.
• Have the ability to push and pull students in wheelchairs, lift, bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques), with or without a reasonable accommodation.

A Note on Qualifications: At Abilities First, we recognize that talent and potential come in many forms. If this position inspires you but your experience does not align with every preferred qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role—or another opportunity within our organization