Assistant Teacher

Department: Auxiliary and Business Services – George Mason University Child Development Center, supporting University faculty, staff, and students by providing early care and education through an emergent, play-based preschool program. The staff prioritizes the healthy development of each child within an environment emphasizing whole food nutrition, social-emotional skills, and nature-based play. The program celebrates diverse cultures, languages, ethnicities, and family structures.

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher (AT) supports the implementation of the overall program of their classroom, adapting to the changing needs of the Lead Teacher and classroom. The AT provides support to each developing child, daily routines, cleaning, planning/set-up, and organization, and assumes management of the classroom in the absence of the Lead Teacher.

Responsibilities

• Supports Lead Teacher with social-emotional development of each child based on individual needs;
• Assists the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally-appropriate and engaging activities consistent with Mason’s CDC mission and philosophy;
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of the classroom; and
• Attends all required staff trainings; completes annual in-service hours/professional development.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent;
• Demonstrated experience working with young children in a school or childcare setting;
• Knowledge of early childhood development;
• Skill working with young children, preferably in a preschool setting;
• Approach all interactions with curiosity, respect, and openness to diverse perspectives and backgrounds; and
• Child Development Associate Credential issued by Council for Professional Recognition (CDA) or CDA Credential equivalent of at least 12 college credits in related education field required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in related field; and
• Training in Mandated Reporter, CPR/1st Aid, Medication Administration (MAT) preferred.

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk), on-site in Fairfax, VA. Required background checks: criminal and works with minors. Not eligible for visa sponsorship.