Preschool Assistant Teacher

A socially conscious, dedicated individual committed to building a better future for children, families, and their communities will thrive in this role supporting early childhood education programs across the country.

About the role

As a Preschool Assistant Teacher, you will assist teaching staff in a Head Start classroom for 3- to 5-year-old children. This position uses knowledge of child growth and development principles to work with children and communicate with internal and external stakeholders. You will collaborate with the teacher, family members, and other staff to achieve positive outcomes for children of all abilities.

Our mission is to design and deliver research and evidence-based approaches to eliminate gaps between young children’s inherent potential and their achievement in school and life. With our partners, we accelerate child and family outcomes that honor the aspirations and cultures of the communities we serve.

Our values: Data-Informed Learning; Transparent & Open Communication; Growth Mindset; Championing Equality; Caring Teams & Communities.

Responsibilities

• Implement a child-centered curriculum and learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation to promote development in all domains for children of all abilities.
• Support the social and emotional development of children.
• Address challenging behaviors by observing to determine possible causes, implementing preventive measures, teaching new social and communication skills, and partnering with families to support the child at home.
• Gather and maintain individual, family, and classroom data for documentation, ongoing assessment, evaluation, and record-keeping for successful individual and program planning.
• Create partnerships and encourage family involvement in the Head Start program to establish positive interaction patterns in program, school, and home.
• Work with Family Advocates to ensure coordinated services meet the needs of individual children and families, including participating in case conferences as appropriate.
• Maintain a safe, healthy learning environment and conduct daily health checks.
• Participate in assigned meetings, events, and training as required.

Requirements

• CDA credential, OR proof of enrollment in coursework on track for completion within one year of hire, OR a degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with at least nine (9) credits in Early Childhood Education, OR enrolled to complete a degree (with related credits) within one year of hire.
• Must have CPR and First Aid certification or be required to obtain within the first year of employment.
• Physical exam and background checks are required for this position.

Pay

$18.78 per hour.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with multiple plan options.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions up to $800 annually.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care expenses.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 4% company match and immediate vesting.
• Company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability and Basic Life Insurance.
• Up to $500 per year in Professional Development Reimbursements.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling and mental wellness support.
• Wellness Programs, including virtual fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes.
• Pet Insurance, Legal Assistance, ID Theft Protection, and Employee Discount Perks.
• Average of 5 weeks of paid time off during the first year of employment.

Additional perks include the ability to make an impact in the lives of children, families, and partners; career growth and professional development opportunities; and a supportive working environment.