Job Description: Assistant Teacher
Reports to: Director
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Purpose: The Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in creating a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that reflects Dixon Academy’s philosophy and commitment to excellence. This position assists in implementing classroom activities, maintaining a safe and stimulating space, and supporting the overall growth and development of each child. The Assistant Teacher plays an essential role in fostering positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
Key Responsibilities:
Classroom Support & Instruction
- Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing daily lesson plans that promote each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
- Actively engage with children during activities to encourage participation, curiosity, and a love of learning.
- Support individualized instruction by adapting activities to meet the needs, interests, and abilities of all children.
- Help maintain an organized, clean, safe, and inviting classroom environment conducive to learning and exploration.
- Prepare classroom materials and learning centers in alignment with weekly lesson plans.
- Treat all children with dignity and respect while supporting their self-esteem and independence.
- Supervise children at all times, ensuring safety and appropriate behavior both indoors and outdoors.
Child Development & Guidance:
- Foster a positive, respectful atmosphere where children feel valued, supported, and confident.
- Model appropriate behavior and social interactions for children.
- Observe and document children’s progress and share relevant information with the Lead Teacher.
- Follow established routines and classroom management strategies to maintain structure and consistency.
Family & Team Collaboration:
- Support the Lead Teacher and administrative team in communicating with families through daily reports and updates.
- Build strong relationships with families by demonstrating professionalism, empathy, and respect.
- Participate in family engagement activities, parent meetings, and school events as needed.
- Collaborate with colleagues to promote a culture of teamwork, positivity, and shared responsibility.
Operational & Professional Responsibilities:
- Follow all Dixon Academy policies, procedures, and state licensing regulations.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff information.
- Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
- Ensure classroom equipment, and materials meet safety and cleanliness standards.
- Communicate any concerns or incidents promptly to the Lead Teacher or Director.
Minimum Job Qualifications & Skills:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred.
- North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCEC) or willingness to obtain upon hire.
- Minimum of one year of experience working in an early childhood education setting preferred.
- Knowledge of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
- Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated patience, enthusiasm, and compassion for young children.
- Current physical examination, including TB test.
- CPR and First Aid certification (must be current or obtained within 30 days of hire).
- Current qualifying criminal background check through the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE).
Physical Requirements: This position requires the ability to perform the essential job functions listed above, with or without reasonable accommodation, in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and child care licensing regulations.
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout the classroom and center for extended periods of time.
- Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, squat, crouch, and reach frequently to interact with children at their level and support classroom activities.
- Ability to lift, carry, and support children weighing up to 40 pounds, as well as move classroom materials, equipment, and supplies.
- Ability to actively supervise children at all times, including visual and auditory monitoring of indoor and outdoor play areas.
- Ability to use hands and fingers for fine motor tasks such as assisting children with self-help skills, preparing materials, cleaning, writing, and documentation.
- Ability to speak clearly and hear effectively to communicate with children, families, and staff, including responding promptly to children’s needs and safety concerns.
- Ability to visually observe children, classroom environments, and materials to ensure health, safety, and developmental appropriateness.
- Ability to tolerate moderate to high noise levels typical of an early childhood classroom environment.
- Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions during playground activities, arrival/dismissal, and special events.
- Ability to respond calmly and appropriately in emergency situations, including evacuations, medical incidents, and behavior-related safety concerns.
- Ability to maintain physical stamina and energy to support an active classroom setting, including prolonged standing, walking, and engaging in play-based learning.
Accountability:
- Reports directly to the Director and receives daily supervision and guidance from the Lead Teacher.
- Responsible for assisting in the implementation of classroom goals, philosophy, and policies as set by Dixon Academy.
- Responsible for maintaining NC sanitation rules/regulations and requirements per state licensing.
- Performance will be evaluated by the Director and/or Assistant Director.
Pay: $15.50 - $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Childcare
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Life insurance
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
Work Location: In person
