What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Preschool Teacher - OTR position at Water Lily Learning Center?
Gold-Rated Step Up to Quality | OTR Full-Time | Cincinnati OH 45214 | Benefits Included
About Water Lily Learning Center
Water Lily Learning Center - OTR is a Gold-rated Step Up to Quality program in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Our preschool classrooms are vibrant learning communities where children develop school readiness, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. Our team implements the Creative Curriculum and prepares every child for a strong kindergarten transition.
Position Summary
The Assistant Preschool Teacher - OTR supports our Lead Preschool Teacher in delivering high-quality, curriculum-aligned instruction to preschoolers ages 3 to 5 at our OTR campus. This is the right role for an aspiring educator who wants to develop classroom skills inside a Gold-rated program and grow toward lead teacher certification.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Lead Preschool Teacher in delivering Creative Curriculum activities aligned with Ohio's 2024 Early Learning and Development Standards
- Support small group instruction across literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts for OTR preschoolers
- Help manage classroom transitions, meals, outdoor play, and rest periods
- Maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating preschool classroom per Ohio DCY and Gold standards
- Assist with observing and documenting children's learning and developmental progress as directed
- Foster positive relationships with OTR preschoolers through consistent encouragement and responsive interaction
- Communicate professionally with OTR families and colleagues throughout the classroom day
- Follow all Water Lily Learning Center, DCY, and Step Up to Quality Gold standards and safety procedures
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree, CDA, or ECE coursework strongly preferred
- Prior experience in a licensed preschool or childcare setting preferred
- Current CPR and First Aid certification required prior to working with children
- Understanding of preschool child development and age-appropriate learning practices
- Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for early childhood education
- Ability to engage actively at child level throughout the full classroom shift
- Must meet all Ohio DCY employment eligibility requirements including applicable clearances
Schedule and Compensation
- Full-time, Monday through Friday
- $14-$17/hr based on experience and qualifications
- Health, dental, and retirement benefits included
- Paid professional development including Creative Curriculum training and CDA support
Health and Wellness Benefits:
- Health Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
- Dental
- Vision
- Life Insurance
- Long-Term Disability
- Short-Term Disability
- NexGenEAP (Employee Assistance Program)
- Working Advantage (Employee Discount and Reward Program)
- Balance Care
- FinFit Financial Wellness
- Cancer Advocate
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Pay on Demand
- Staff Meetings: Monthly paid meetings
- 11 Paid Holidays
- Paid Time Off (PTO):
- Paid Professional Development
- Weekly Pay
- Employee Referral Program
- Plus More
Why Join Water Lily?
- Gold-rated program — a strong foundation for your early childhood career in Cincinnati
- Paid professional development and direct mentorship from lead teachers
- Clear advancement pathway toward lead teacher certification
- Collaborative, mission-driven team in a vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood
- Make a real impact on school readiness for children during a critical developmental window
Salary : $14 - $17