Summary
Supports the Lead Teacher in developing, implementing, and evaluating developmentally appropriate practices for children. This role ensures children's physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs are met to promote school readiness while maintaining a safe, nurturing learning environment. The Assistant Teacher collaborates closely with the Lead Teacher and contributes to maintaining a high-quality classroom environment aligned with program goals.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Classroom Environment & Safety
Supervision & Health
- Support the Lead Teacher in maintaining constant supervision of children
- Follow health, hygiene, and safety protocols (OEC & NAEYC guidelines)
- Monitor and respond to children's physical and emotional well-being
Physical Space & Atmosphere
- Assist with organizing and maintaining classroom materials
- Help arrange physical space to support safe and effective learning
- Contribute to creating a welcoming and developmentally appropriate classroom atmosphere
- Promote a positive classroom environment through supportive interactions
- Assist in setting up and maintaining engaging learning centers
- Manage transitions smoothly in alignment with the daily schedule
Educational Programming and Child Development
Curriculum & Planning
- Under guidance of the lead teacher implement developmentally appropriate curriculum
- Facilitate both individual and group activities that support all developmental domains
- Assist with adapting curriculum strategies to meet individual children's needs
Child Interaction & Development
- Participate actively in children's play to extend learning opportunities
- Use positive guidance techniques to support emotional regulation and social skills
- Foster early literacy, language development, and independence
- Support cultural awareness and inclusive practices
- Help manage classroom routines and transitions effectively
Assessment & Documentation
- Contribute to developmental assessments through observation and documentation
- Assist in maintaining individual child portfolios
- Share relevant child observations with the teaching team to inform planning
- Assist in collecting daily observations and anecdotal records
- Support completion of required documentation under guidance of Lead Teacher
Data Use & Reporting
- Help maintain assessment records and contribute to curriculum adjustments based on data
- Support progress monitoring efforts in collaboration with Lead Teacher
Family Engagement
Communication & Relationships
- Build positive, respectful relationships with families
- Engage in daily communication with families as appropriate
- Maintain confidentiality in all interactions
Involvement & Support
- Support family engagement efforts such as classroom events and newsletters
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity in all family interactions
Professional Responsibilities
Teamwork & Communication
- Participate in team teaching and collaborate effectively with colleagues
- Attend staff meetings and contribute ideas to team planning
- Communicate clearly and respectfully in all professional interactions
- Maintain positive and professional relationships with colleagues
- Report concerns about children or classroom to appropriate supervisors
Professional Conduct
- Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality with families
- Follow mandated reporting procedures for suspected abuse/neglect
- Arrive punctually and maintain consistent attendance
- Follow all center policies, state regulations, and NAEYC standards
- Maintain professional appearance and conduct
- Represent program professionally
Growth & Adaptability
- Demonstrate flexibility and positive response to change
- Manage multiple demands and priorities effectively
- Demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills
- Contribute to overall program improvement
- Work effectively with consultants and other professionals
- Serve as a mentor/role model for other staff members
- Maintain emotional composure in a fast-paced environment
Leadership Responsibilities
Supportive Leadership
- Step into Lead Teacher role when necessary
- Model appropriate teaching practices and professionalism for peers
- Contribute ideas to improve classroom practices
- Demonstrate initiative and problem-solving as part of the teaching team
Innovation & Professional Development
Ongoing Learning
- Pursue professional development and continuing education opportunities
- Apply new knowledge and strategies in classroom practice
- Stay informed about trends and research in early childhood education
- Complete required continuing education hours
Compliance Responsibilities
Regulations & Standards
- Follow all center policies, licensing regulations, and NAEYC standards
- Maintain current knowledge of NAEYC standards and the Code of Ethical Conduct
- Maintain current certifications (CPR, First Aid, Medication, etc.)
- Support program compliance and accreditation efforts
- Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards
Documentation & Procedures
- Assist in maintaining comprehensive record-keeping systems
- Assist in completing required documentation within established timeframes
- Assist in managing classroom resources and supplies effectively
- Track and report incidents according to protocol
- Maintain required adult-child ratios
- Follow proper health and safety procedures
- Assist in implementation of required curriculum and assessment tools
- Follow proper record-keeping procedures
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Minimum of a CDA and 12 ECE credits, or Associate/Bachelor's Degree in ECE or related field with minimum 12 ECE credits
- At least one year of experience in an early childhood setting
- Current First Aid, CPR, Medication, and Epi-pen certifications (or willingness to obtain)
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Foundational knowledge of child development and early childhood best practices
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise good judgment
- Proficient written and verbal English communication skills
- Strong organizational and time management abilities
- Basic computer literacy and documentation skills
- Time management and organizational skills
Physical Requirements
- Able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
- Capable of standing, walking, bending, and reaching frequently
- Ability to move quickly in response to children's needs
- Vision and hearing sufficient to supervise children
- Ability to work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions
- Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations
- Physical ability to engage actively with young children
Other Requirements
- Completion of criminal background check and DCF clearance
- Statement of good health from a physician
- Ability to work flexible hours as needed
This position operates in an early childhood setting with moderate noise levels. Regular exposure to outside weather conditions, childhood illnesses, and bodily fluids. Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Ensure frequent contact with children, families, and staff.
This job description is not designed to cover all job requirements and responsibilities; duties may change or be added based on program needs.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $19.50 - $21.50 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Education:
Work Location: In person
