Preschool Co-Teacher (Assistant Teacher)
Community Arts Preschool offers developmental early childhood programs inspired by Reggio Emilia practices and encourage child centered, play-based learning. Using elements of the Emergent Curriculum and standards adapted from the national Association for the Education of Young Children’s Developmental Appropriate Practices, our teachers educate the whole child through integrated curricula where children’s emerging ideas and interests play a vital part in our planning. Our programs offer a foundation for meaningful, experiential and creative arts-based learning. Children will experience learning in an inclusive environment – we want children to feel safe learning though making mistakes as well as experiencing the joy in success.
Community Arts Preschool has three locations – Civic Park, Heather Farm, and Shadelands. Each program site has its own unique approach and provides a safe, nurturing environment that promotes the social, emotional, intellectual and physical development of each child. We are seeking substitute teachers with the possibility of more permanent hours in the future for all three locations.
About Center for Community Arts
Community Arts Preschool is a Center for Community Arts program. For over 40 years the City of Walnut Creek's Center for Community Arts (formerly Civic Arts Education) has been the regional center of arts learning -- promoting new visions, supporting exploration, stimulating creative thought and encouraging self-expression. We bring high-quality visual and performing arts instruction and educational experiences to participants of all ages. Last year more than 16,000 adults, youth and children enjoyed beginning through professional level classes and programs at the Civic Park and Shadelands campuses, as well as at Tice Gym and area schools.
Preschool Locations
Community Arts Preschool at Shadelands: 111 N. Wiget Lane in Walnut CreekCommunity Arts Preschool at Civic Park: 1375 Civic Drive in Walnut CreekCommunity Arts Preschool at Heather Farm: 500 N. San Carlos Drive in Walnut Creek
Co-Teacher Role
Community Arts Preschool is seeking co-teachers for at our Shadelands, Heather Farm, and Civic Park locations. The co-teacher is an important part of our classroom, working closely with our Lead Preschool Teacher to provide support and care for the children in our program. The co-teacher helps with classroom maintenance as well as instruction, assisting students at learning centers throughout the classroom and supervising outdoor play.
Responsibilities
Instruction
- Supervise small groups of children in the classroom and during outdoor play
- Work with Lead Teacher to design and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that meets the needs of all children
- Support children as a facilitator of learning throughout the day
- Model positive and appropriate language and behavior
- Assist Lead Teachers with classroom documentation (taking photographs, dictation, etc.)
- Communicate child concerns and family needs to Lead Preschool Teacher and team
- Arrive to class and meetings prepared and on time and ready to teach
Classroom Maintenance
- Set up and oversee learning centers with guidance from the Lead Preschool Teacher
- Maintain cleanliness of classroom space
- Prepare materials and supplies
- Prepare snack - double check class list for food allergies, etc.
- Assist children with bathroom needs - this includes diapering and helping with clothing as needed
- Step in as the Lead Teacher as needed including leading circle time, story time, and music
Team Participation
- Attend and contribute to bi-weekly staff meetings
- Actively participate in team planning and trainings
Desirable Qualifications
- Caring, nurturing provider with minimum of 1-2 years of experience working with preschool age children in a developmental classroom setting
- Team player – able to work as part of a teaching team as well as work independently
- Able to lift up to 30 lbs and be comfortable assisting with toileting
- ECE units desirable (completed and / or on-going)
Job Requirements
- Current vaccination / TB screening
- CPR / First Aid certification
- Mandated reporter training (to be completed upon hire)
- Livescan clearance / fingerprinting (to be completed upon hire)
- Authorization to work in the US
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- preschool: 1 year (Preferred)