What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Teacher Full-Time position at Olive Tree Early Learning Academy?
Assistant Teacher - Early Childhood (Infant, Toddler, Preschool)
Olive Tree Early Learning Academy | Knoxville, TN
At Olive Tree Early Learning Academy, we believe children are born with dignity, curiosity, and an innate desire to connect and learn. We are seeking an Assistant Teacher who wants to be part of a learning community rooted in relationship, restoration, and respect for children and adults alike.
This role is ideal for someone who is eager to grow in their practice, values collaboration, and understands that learning and behavior are deeply connected to relationships and emotional safety.
Our Approach
At Olive Tree, classrooms are guided by:
- Conscious Discipline as our framework for social-emotional learning, self-regulation, and behavior guidance
- Creative Curriculum to support developmentally appropriate, play-based learning
- Teaching Strategies GOLD for ongoing observation and assessment
- e-DECA to strengthen social-emotional development and resilience
Assistant Teachers play a vital role in helping bring these frameworks to life through daily interactions, routines, and relationships with children.
About the Role
As an Assistant Teacher, you will:
- Support the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment
- Build warm, responsive relationships with children that support emotional regulation and learning
- Help implement curriculum experiences aligned with Creative Curriculum
- Assist with observing children and contributing to documentation and assessment (GOLD and e-DECA)
- Support classroom routines, transitions, and daily care needs with consistency and care
- Model respectful, calm, and attuned interactions with children and adults
- Collaborate closely with the teaching team to support children’s growth and well-being
- Communicate with families in ways that reflect Olive Tree’s values and philosophy
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking someone who:
- Believes children learn best through connection, play, and meaningful relationships
- Is open to coaching, reflection, and ongoing professional growth
- Can remain calm, present, and responsive during moments of stress or challenge
- Understands that behavior is communication and approaches guidance with empathy
- Values teamwork, shared responsibility, and mutual respect
- Is dependable, reflective, and committed to children’s well-being
Experience in early childhood settings is preferred, but we also welcome candidates who are newer to the field and eager to learn within a supportive environment.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- CDA, ECE coursework, or willingness to pursue training preferred
- Ability to meet state licensing requirements
- Commitment to ongoing professional development
Why Olive Tree?
At Olive Tree, we invest in our educators as whole people. We believe adults, like children, are always in the process of becoming. We offer:
- Coaching and mentorship grounded in Conscious Discipline
- A collaborative, values-driven team culture
- Opportunities for growth and professional learning
- A work environment centered on dignity, restoration, and belonging
If you are looking for a place where your presence matters, your growth is supported, and your work contributes to something meaningful, we would love to hear from you.
Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $15 - $17