Per Diem PreKindergarten Instructional Assistant (Trimester 1)

About the Role

Derby Academy, a Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 co-educational day school in Hingham, Massachusetts, seeks an enthusiastic, well-qualified candidate for the position of Per Diem PreKindergarten Instructional Assistant Teacher. This full-time daily position supports the Lead Teachers in fostering early literacy, foundational math concepts, sensory- and play-based learning, and social-emotional growth in a joyful, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate academic environment. The classroom culture is guided by the theory and practice of Responsive Classroom.

The Instructional Assistant plays a key role in supporting daily routines, transitions, classroom management, and overall student well-being. Responsibilities extend beyond the classroom to include playground and snack/dining supervision and carpool support. A collaborative spirit, warmth, and a growth mindset are essential for success in this role.

Responsibilities

• Support Lead Teachers in delivering early literacy and foundational math instruction.
• Facilitate sensory- and play-based learning activities.
• Assist with classroom management, daily routines, and transitions.
• Support social-emotional growth and self-regulation strategies for 4- to 5-year-olds.
• Contribute to a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.
• Supervise students during outdoor play, snack/lunch, rest time, and carpool arrival/dismissal.
• Prepare classroom materials and assist with setup for learning centers.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to uphold Derby Academy’s mission and values.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree (preferably in Early Childhood Education or a related field).
• Demonstrated experience working in an early childhood or PreK educational setting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment.
• Knowledge of early childhood development, self-regulation strategies, and play-based learning.

Ideal Candidate Qualities

• Deep knowledge of early childhood milestones and a patient, nurturing approach to supporting 4- to 5-year-olds.
• Skill in facilitating small-group activities and guiding sensory and hands-on learning centers.
• Experience helping young children navigate social interactions, build independence, and manage transitions.
• Contributions to a supportive, caring classroom environment where students feel safe and valued.
• Attentiveness and consistent good judgment during supervision of outdoor play, snack/lunch, rest time, and carpool.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, and eagerness to engage in mission-driven collaboration.

Schedule

Daily / Per Diem for the duration of Trimester 1: August 24, 2026 – November 24, 2026.

Hours: 7:40 AM - 3:15 PM, Monday - Friday.

Location: Derby Academy, 56 Burditt Avenue, Hingham, MA 02043.

Pay

Daily pay: $180 - $200 per day, depending upon education and experience.