Assistant teacher

Job Description

The primary responsibility of Assistant Teachers, Floaters, and Substitute Staff is to support the Lead Teacher in meeting classroom and student needs, ensuring compliance with established guidelines and assigned duties. This role focuses on actively contributing to the holistic stimulation and development of the children, guaranteeing their physical, emotional, and social well-being at all times, while fostering a safe, enriching environment aligned with the values of the school.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Collaborative Teamwork: Works effectively with colleagues, fostering a positive and participatory work environment.
• Positive Communication: Promotes respectful and constructive dialogue with students, families, and colleagues to encourage mutual understanding and support.
• Customer Focus: Responds to the needs of children and families, always striving to provide the best educational experience.
• Planning: Supports the strategic organization of educational activities and resources to meet learning objectives.
• Climate Agent: Helps foster an inclusive and respectful classroom environment where all children and adults feel valued.
• Interpersonal Sensitivity: Recognizes and empathetically responds to the emotional needs of children and adults within the school setting.
• Political Sensitivity: Maintains a diplomatic and professional demeanor in situations that require discretion and tact.
• Respect: Models and promotes respect for all individuals inside and outside the classroom, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration.

Education and Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma + North Carolina Early Childhood Credentials (with at least 18 credits in Early Childhood Education) or Bachelor’s degree in Education or Psychology.
• AA/AAS in Early Childhood Development or Child Development.
• Minimum of 1 year of verifiable experience in early childhood education (preferred).
• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• DHHS Criminal Background Check.
• SIDS certification

Required Skills

• English Proficiency & Language Growth: Communicates clearly and effectively in English and demonstrates a willingness to learn and use Spanish in daily interaction.
• Ability to work under pressure in a dynamic environment.
• Self-motivation, initiative, and the ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Creative and effective problem-solving.
• Ability to foster teamwork and maintain positive relationships with colleagues and families.
• Physical Agility: Ability to move easily within the classroom, including kneeling, crouching, crawling, running, and jumping to engage with children at their level.
• Active Physical Interaction: Ability to physically get down to a child’s level (sitting on the floor or kneeling) to promote closeness and trust.
• Movement Adaptability: Ability to perform quick, precise movements when necessary to ensure the safety of children, such as during play or in potentially risky situations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Educational Support: Assists the Lead Teacher in planning and executing educational activities that align with SFF! guidelines and policies.
• Classroom Management and Supervision: Assists in the organization and supervision of daily classroom activities, promoting a structured and enriching environment.
• Classroom Health and Safety: Complies with safety and hygiene regulations established by SFF and DCDEE, maintaining a clean, organized, and hazard-free classroom. Ensures that materials and toys are safe, age-appropriate, and disinfected regularly. Supervises children's personal hygiene routines, encouraging healthy habits such as handwashing and organizing personal items.
• Child Interaction and Support: Promotes positive interactions among children, helping them develop social skills and constructively resolve conflicts. Provides emotional and physical support when needed, respecting each child’s individuality and specific needs.