Preschool 3s Teacher Assistant
Location: Harbor Country Day School – St. James, Long Island, NY Position Type: Part-time, 10-month Start Date: August 31, 2026
About Harbor Country Day School
Harbor Country Day School is an independent, coeducational day school for students in preschool through grade 8, located on the North Shore of Long Island in St. James, New York. Grounded in the motto “Sine Labore Nihil” (Without Work, Nothing), we inspire students to achieve personal excellence in academics, character, and creativity in a nurturing and supportive environment. Our mission guides us in our dedication to “cherish childhood, cultivate wonder, and inspire confident learners and leaders”.
Position Overview
Harbor Country Day School seeks a warm, energetic, and nurturing Preschool Teacher Assistant to support our partial-day three-year-old preschool program. The Teacher Assistant works closely with the Lead Teacher to create a joyful, engaging, and developmentally appropriate classroom where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn through play and exploration.
The ideal candidate enjoys working with young children, values hands-on learning, and understands the developmental needs of preschool-aged students. This position reports to the Early Childhood Division Head.
Key Responsibilities
- Classroom Support
- Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing creative, developmentally appropriate lessons and activities for three-year-old students.
- Prepare classroom materials, learning centers, and equipment for daily instruction.
- Help maintain an organized, safe, welcoming, and engaging classroom environment.
- Support classroom routines, transitions, and daily schedules.
- Student Support
- Supervise and support students during classroom instruction, centers, outdoor play, and other daily activities.
- Foster each child’s physical, social, and emotional growth through positive interactions and encouragement.
- Help manage classroom behavior using developmentally appropriate practices.
- Observe students and communicate important information to the Lead Teacher as needed.
- Collaboration and School Community
- Anticipate classroom needs by preparing materials and assisting with instructional activities.
- Assist with classroom displays, bulletin boards, and organization throughout the school year.
- Participate in Preschool events, Open Houses, and other Harbor community activities.
- Attend monthly faculty meetings and collaborate with colleagues to support student success.
Qualifications
- Experience working with young children in a preschool or early childhood setting preferred.
- Passion for working with preschool-age children and supporting their growth through play-based learning.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and colleagues.
- Positive, flexible, and team-oriented attitude.
What We Offer
- A supportive and collegial faculty community.
- Opportunities for professional development and leadership.
- A warm, welcoming school culture rooted in tradition and innovation.
Requirements
- Candidates selected to move forward after the initial interview will be invited to complete a 30-minute lesson observation as part of the hiring process.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following to [email protected]
- A cover letter expressing interest and alignment with Harbor’s mission
- A current resume
- Contact information for three current professional references
Application Deadline: Rolling basis until position is filled.
Learn more about Harbor Country Day School at www.hcdsny.org
Harbor Country Day School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, creed, citizenship, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, marital status, veteran's status, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
