Description:
Job Title: Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistant
Department: Early Childhood Department
Reports to: Universal Prekindergarten Director (UPK Director)
Location: Albany School District (Additional Openings at Cohoes or Watervliet City School Districts)
Salary: From $16.00 per hour
Schedule: Mon-Fri, 37.5 hours/week, full-time, 10-month contract (August - June)
Benefits: Sick time, paid school holidays and school breaks, 401K, health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement benefits, and eligibility for additional third-party discounts.
Overview:
Universal Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistants play a vital role in supporting Pre-Kindergarten Teachers in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years. This role follows the approved curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives of the respective school district to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for academic and social-emotional achievement. Working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, Teaching Assistants are responsible for assisting with classroom management and program delivery.
Key Responsibilities:
Planning & Leadership:
- Assist in creating and submitting weekly lesson plans based on approved curriculum and individual student needs.
- Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to ensure all necessary materials and resources are prepared for classroom activities.
- Help develop and implement creative, hands-on classroom activities aligned with predetermined units of study and student needs.
- Utilize the Learning Without Tears curriculum in conjunction with the 2nd-Step program to facilitate both academic and social-emotional development.
- Actively participate in Professional Development opportunities offered by the school district and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area.
Program Delivery:
- Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to implement planned lessons and activities effectively.
- Assist in delivering age-appropriate instruction in various subject areas, including early literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies.
- Support small group activities and provide individualized attention to students as needed.
- Complete required documentation accurately and timely, including progress reports, attendance records, progress monitoring forms, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.
- Provide guidance and support to ensure effective classroom management and a positive learning environment.
- Assist in organizing and maintaining an orderly, attractive, and stimulating classroom environment.
Health & Safety:
- Adhere to and help enforce health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.
- Maintain a safe and secure learning environment for students by actively monitoring and addressing potential hazards.
- Assist in implementing proper hygiene practices and routines among students.
- Support the emotional well-being of students by fostering a nurturing and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
- Remain alert to signs of child abuse or neglect and report concerns through appropriate channels.
- Assist in managing emergency situations according to established procedures.
Student Support and Development:
- Observe and document student progress, behavior, and developmental milestones.
- Assist in identifying students who may need additional support or intervention.
- Help implement individualized education plans (IEPs) or behavior plans as directed by the Lead Teacher.
- Encourage student independence and self-help skills appropriate for their age and developmental level.
- Promote positive social interactions among students and model appropriate behavior and communication.
DISCLAIMER: The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.
Requirements:
CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
Education /Experience/Certification:
- Preferred - Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education
- Minimum 1-2 years experience working in an Early Childhood setting
- Teaching Assistant Certification or current enrollment in certification program
- Experience with early childhood development and education
- Mandated Reporter Certification
- Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid Training
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Ability to work effectively with young children
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent time management skills
- Ability to adapt to changing situations and needs of students
- Proficient with MS Office, Google Drive & Docs, and email
Physical Requirements:
This job may require extended periods of standing, walking, and engaging in physical activities with children. The ability to lift up to 25 pounds may also be necessary.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Persons from diverse backgrounds including communities of color, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.
Compensation details: 16-17 Hourly Wage
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