Assistant Preschool Teacher

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field preferred.
2. Previous experience working with young children in a preschool or daycare setting is preferred.
3. Knowledge of early childhood development principles and practices.
4. CPR/First Aid certification and background check are required.
5. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
6. Patience, creativity, and a passion for working with young children.
7. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

1. Stamina to engage in active play and movement activities with children.
2. Ability to bend, stoop, and kneel to interact with children at their level.

Work Environment:

1. Preschool classroom setting with varying levels of noise and activity.
2. May involve exposure to cleaning products and other allergens.
3. Participation in outdoor activities and occasional field trips.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Assistant Preschool Teacher works under the guidance of the lead teacher to support the educational and emotional development of young children in a preschool setting. They assist in implementing lesson plans, supervising children, and maintaining a safe and engaging environment.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assist Lead Teacher: Support the lead teacher in implementing age-appropriate curriculum and activities that promote the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children.
2. Supervise Children: Monitor and supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
3. Classroom Management: Help maintain a clean, organized, and inviting classroom environment conducive to learning. Assist in setting up and arranging learning materials and resources.
4. Classroom Setup: Assist in setting up and maintaining a clean, organized, and child-friendly classroom environment. This includes arranging furniture, setting up learning centers, and displaying children's work.
5. Individualized Support: Provide one-on-one assistance to children who may need extra help or attention, including those with special needs or behavioral challenges.
6. Health and Hygiene: Assist children with basic hygiene routines, including handwashing, toileting (students are expected to be potty trained, however, occasional accidents may occur), and dressing. Follow proper protocols for sanitation and cleanliness to maintain a healthy environment.
7. Behavior Management: Support the implementation of positive behavior management strategies. Help promote cooperation, kindness, and respect among children through modeling and reinforcement.
8. Assessment and Documentation: Assist in observing and assessing children's progress and behavior, and communicate observations to the lead teacher and parents as needed. Help maintain accurate records and documentation of children's development and milestones. Assist with accurate records of attendance.
9. Communication: Communicate effectively with parents, colleagues, and supervisors regarding children's progress, concerns, and achievements. Participate in parent-teacher conferences and other school events as required.
10. Collaboration: Collaborate with other staff members to plan and coordinate special events, field trips, and other activities that enhance the preschool experience for children and families.
11. Time Management: Arrive to begin working within the classroom at assigned times; recognize down times appropriately for taking breaks; complete your day as expected; may include time for meetings, conferences, and/or training outside the classroom hours.
12. Professional Development: Participate in Preschool related staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and stay current with best practices in early childhood education.

It is the policy of Public Schools of Petoskey that no person shall, on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, sex, marital status or handicap be excluded for participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any programs or activity and employment as required by Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1963; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Any questions concerning discrimination should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator, Public Schools of Petoskey, 1130 Howard Street, Petoskey, MI  49770, or phone (231) 348-2100.