Early Childhood Teacher Assistant (Anticipated SY 26-27)

Early Childhood Teacher Assistant

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) serves more than 1,600 students from PreK–12 and is a free, open-enrollment public charter school system located in Kansas City, Missouri. Over 97% of our students identify as Latinx, and many are bilingual or English learners. Our network includes Guadalupe Centers Elementary School, Guadalupe Centers Middle School, and Guadalupe Centers High School.

GCCS grew out of Guadalupe Centers’ educational programs — part of the longest continuously operating agency serving the Latinx community in the United States since 1919. Our deep community roots shape our mission: to prepare all students academically, socially, and emotionally for college, career, and life success.

Why Work at GCCS

Students & Families:
Our teachers form strong relationships with students and families through a community-driven approach. The connection between our schools and Guadalupe Centers’ historic mission fosters trust and collaboration that support student success.

Staff Autonomy:
GCCS teachers are empowered to innovate. We value professional judgment and encourage creative, research-based classroom practices that meet the needs of diverse learners.

Coaching & Development:
Each staff member collaborates with their instructional coach and building leadership to set annual professional growth goals aligned to district priorities. Our development model focuses on reflection, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Competitive Benefits:

• Competitive salary aligned to experience and certification level
• Relocation stipend (for qualifying hires)
• Bilingual stipend (Spanish-speaking staff)
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education (up to lifetime cap per GCCS policy)
• Mental health and well-being support through expanded employee assistance and wellness programs
• 403(b) retirement match up to 5% (for eligible staff)
• Perfect attendance incentive program (up to $1,600 annually)
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

Summary:
The Early Childhood Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment that promotes the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of young children. The role includes assisting with instruction, supervising students, supporting behavior expectations, and maintaining strong relationships with families and staff.

Reports To: Building Principal

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum and daily classroom activities aligned to program goals.
• Assist in creating and maintaining a safe, organized, and engaging classroom environment that supports learning and exploration.
• Supervise students at all times, including during transitions, meals, recess, and rest periods, ensuring student safety and appropriate behavior.
• Promote and reinforce positive social, emotional, and behavioral development using established classroom and school-wide expectations.
• Provide small-group and individualized support to students to strengthen early literacy, language, and cognitive skills.
• Assist the Lead Teacher with lesson preparation, instructional activities, and classroom routines both indoors and outdoors.
• Observe student behavior and learning; document and share relevant information with the Lead Teacher.
• Support the implementation and maintenance of required student assessments and documentation in compliance with federal, state, and program guidelines.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers, specialists, and support staff to meet student needs.
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with families as directed by the Lead Teacher or administration.
• Maintain confidentiality of all student and family information in accordance with district policies and legal requirements.
• Assume responsibility for classroom supervision and instruction in the absence of the Lead Teacher, as assigned.
• Follow all school, district, and program policies, including health and safety procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Building Principal or designee.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to build positive, supportive relationships with young children.
• Ability to follow direction and work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and professional in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to working with diverse and underserved student populations.

Education and Experience:

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential preferred.
• Experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and sit on the floor for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to actively participate in classroom activities, including play, movement, and outdoor supervision.
• Ability to respond quickly to student needs and ensure safety at all times.

Application Process:

Please complete an online application at https://www.gck12.org/o/gc/page/work-for-gccs.
Attach your resume, cover letter, transcripts, and certification (if applicable).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or veteran status. We also prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forward complaints or participate in investigations of discrimination.