What are the responsibilities and job description for the GVES PreK Instructional Aide (2026-2027) ONE YEAR ONLY position at Humboldt County School District?
PreK Instructional Aide (2026-2027) - ONE YEAR ONLY - 7 Hour Position
Qualifications Profile
Must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent, in addition to one of the following:
- Associate’s degree
- Two years of college coursework (48 semester credits)
- Passing score on the PRAXIS Paraprofessional test
Position Purpose
Under the direct supervision of a certified teacher, assist in providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for preschool-aged children. Support classroom instruction, daily routines, and developmental activities that promote social, emotional, physical, and academic growth in early learners.
Essential Job Functions
- Assist the teacher in implementing developmentally appropriate activities that support early childhood learning.
- Work with students individually and in small groups to reinforce early literacy, language development, math readiness, social skills, and fine/gross motor development.
- Support children during classroom routines including centers, circle time, transitions, meals, rest time, and outdoor play.
- Help maintain a safe, positive, and orderly classroom environment.
- Assist with classroom behavior management using positive reinforcement and age-appropriate guidance strategies.
- Prepare, organize, and distribute classroom materials and learning activities.
- Observe and assist students with personal care and self-help skills as needed, including handwashing, toileting, dressing, and feeding support when appropriate.
- Assist with record-keeping and documentation related to student progress, attendance, and classroom activities.
- Supervise students during non-instructional times including playground, lunch, arrival/dismissal, and field trips.
- Encourage positive social interaction, cooperation, and emotional development among students.
- Communicate respectfully and effectively with staff, students, and families as directed by the teacher.
- Assist in maintaining classroom cleanliness, organization, and sanitation according to health and safety standards.
Additional Duties
- Assist school staff and administration as needed.
- Participate in classroom meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities and is not intended to be all-inclusive.
Equipment
- Use standard classroom and office equipment such as computers, printers, copiers, tablets, and educational technology tools.
Travel Requirements
- Travel between schools or district sites may be required for certain positions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to work effectively with preschool-aged children in a caring and supportive manner.
- Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
- Ability to maintain patience, flexibility, and professionalism in a fast-paced classroom environment.
- Ability to establish positive relationships with children, families, and staff.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding students and staff.
- Ability to assist with classroom technology and educational software applications.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to support students with diverse learning, behavioral, and developmental needs.
Physical and Mental Demands / Work Environment
- Works in a classroom and school environment with young children.
- Ability to sit on the floor, bend, kneel, lift classroom materials, and actively supervise children indoors and outdoors.
- Ability to work outdoors during recess, playground activities, and field trips.
- May be required to lift or assist children and classroom equipment up to district guidelines.