Classroom Aide - Acute Partial Hospital Program

Pay: $18.00 an Hour

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (school year schedule, September through  June ), 37.5 hours/week 

Location: Children’s Acute Program – 1319 Sassafras Street, Erie PA 16501

Overview:

As a Classroom Aide at the Barber National Institute, you’ll work directly with children in a therapeutic setting within the Acute Partial Hospitalization Program. Your role will be essential in supporting a structured environment that addresses the behavioral and emotional needs of up to 12 children through therapeutic activities and individualized treatment plans.

You will assist the classroom lead in implementing lesson plans, managing behaviors, providing support during arrival and dismissal, and maintaining a safe and welcoming classroom environment. You will also collaborate with therapists, behavioral specialists, and the treatment team to ensure effective care and intervention strategies.

What You'll Bring:

• A strong desire to support children with behavioral health needs in a structured, therapeutic setting.
• Patience, empathy, and professionalism in handling behaviorally challenging situations.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills to collaborate with clinical and educational staff.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills to help maintain classroom structure and complete documentation.

What You'll Have:

• A minimum of one year of experience in the mental health field working with children.
• Proven experience using behavioral interventions and de-escalation techniques. • Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Ability to complete all required background clearances: State Police Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse History Clearance, and FBI Clearance.
• Willingness to complete mandatory training programs and follow established safety and behavioral protocols.

A Typical Day May Include:

• Supporting therapeutic group activities alongside the classroom lead for up to 12 children.
• Assisting in the implementation of daily lesson plans and individualized treatment plans.
• Utilizing de-escalation and therapeutic intervention techniques during behavioral events.
• Assisting with arrival and dismissal routines and transitions throughout the day.
• Tracking and documenting behaviors, writing progress notes, and contributing to treatment planning.
• Maintaining a welcoming, organized, and therapeutic classroom space—including decorating bulletin boards and ensuring a clutter-free environment.
• Attending meetings such as weekly supervisions, treatment team reviews, and staff planning sessions.
• Collaborating with the clinical team to provide consistent, compassionate, and structured care