Assistant Teacher - Therapeutic Preschool

About the Role

We are looking for an Assistant Teacher for our therapeutic preschool providing services to children with disabilities. You will work alongside a great team of teachers and administrative staff, supporting a wonderful group of children. The assistant serves as supportive personnel, providing services as directed by the lead teacher/therapists. This position encompasses a range of work, from assisting with instruction to assisting with food service, and is critical for the efficient operation of the classroom and therapy sessions.

Responsibilities

• Prepare the classroom for daily instruction and provide a positive, engaging learning environment tailored to individual children’s needs.
• Work with children during meals/snacks, learning activities, and circle time; implement behavior management plans as needed.
• Engage with children in classroom activities and assist with field trips, swimming, and other programs.
• Assist with loading/unloading buses and escorting children to/from class and waiting areas.
• Ensure the classroom and equipment (toys, tables, chairs, etc.) are clean, safe, and in good repair; sanitize and organize at the end of each day.
• Maintain cleanliness in the kitchen area, playground, and common/storage areas.
• Attend to the toileting needs of children, including supervision, toilet training, diaper changes, and maintaining a clean changing area.
• Ensure classroom activities and environment comply with childcare licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and Head Start/Early Head Start standards.
• Follow the direction of the lead teacher and therapists, and attend team meetings.
• Assist with implementation of children’s individualized goals.
• Support record keeping, including attendance, food records, and outcome data.
• Report observations regarding illness, injury, hygiene, clothing needs, material shortages, broken toys/equipment, or safety concerns.
• Assist with food service, playground/recess supervision, and bus loading/unloading.
• Assume duties of absent staff as needed and maintain shared supply areas, classroom dishes, and laundry.
• Attend staff meetings and serve on staff committees.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Child Development Associates (CDA) degree preferred; CDA certification must be obtained within 24 months of hire and maintained annually.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Two years of experience working with young children required; experience with children with disabilities preferred.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and spoken language.
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members of other disciplines and in partnership with parents/caregivers.
• Ability to apply new skills and manage time efficiently to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work with families from diverse ethnic, cultural, linguistic, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a variety of settings, including ascending/descending stairs.
• Comfortable working in various positions, including seated on the floor.
• Ability to lift at least 30 pounds, with potential weight up to 60+ pounds based on children enrolled.

About Us

Ability KC is the longest-standing private, not-for-profit, comprehensive outpatient medical rehabilitation facility in Kansas City. We serve thousands of individuals and families annually, providing a unique, personalized approach to care for people of all ages through educational, vocational, and therapeutic services. Our organization is nationally accredited and recognized as a leader in value-based care.

Our mission is to build brighter futures for children and adults with disabilities by providing comprehensive services. We emphasize the well-being of every individual, fostering meaning in daily work, quality relationships, financial security, and vibrant health. Our culture is built on three pillars: making a positive impact every day, embracing legacy and innovation, and rising together.

Benefits

• Monday – Friday services.
• Comprehensive benefit package, including paid Winter Break and Wellness Care Leave.