Preschool Teacher Assistant

Overview:

The Preschool Teacher Assistant is a Part-Time Position. We offer competitive compensation, PTO and an employee discount for part-time employees.

Job Purpose:
The Assistant Preschool teacher will team with the Lead Teacher to create a nurturing environment that fosters social, emotional, and cognitive development for each student in this nature based program. Students range in ages from 2-5.  The Assistant Teacher will provide aide to individual students and assist the Lead in all aspects of the program.  They will provide quality customer service to the families, park patrons, and Park District staff.

Essential Functions:

• Assist with the implementation and leading of nature-based lessons/activities that promote age appropriate growth.
• Assist in creating a nurturing classroom culture through nature-based play, hands-on activities, student directed learning, modeling, teacher self-talk, and constant adult-child interaction.
•  Ensure that regular safety inspections/evacuation drills are performed and that all risk management practices are in compliance with Park District safety rules and procedures.
•  Assist in maintaining required staff and student files, attendance records, and general forms needed to operate the facility in compliance with DCFS licensing and Park District standards.
•  Foster a community with open and frequent communication.
•  Assist with the ordering and purchasing of classroom supplies and equipment.
•  Participate in all monthly teacher meetings, trainings, and workshops.• Act as a mentor and role model for students and Park District staff.
•  Assist in the management of classroom behaviors and transitions through redirection.
•  Assist in adapting teacher instruction, scheduling, and the classroom environment to meet the varying needs, interests, and learning styles.
•  Communicate with parents and supervisor regularly via email, phone, in-person, etc.
•  Assist with the upkeep of school displays and classroom set-up.
•  Work effectively with internal and external customers recognize diverse opinions and needs, and maintain a positive working relationship with employees.
•  Properly maintain building materials and facility cleanliness.
•  Assist in creating a nurturing classroom culture through play, hands-on activities, student directed learning, modeling, teacher self-talk, and constant adult-child interaction.

Additional Functions:
• Assist when needed with special projects, programs, events, or family nights.
• Assist with the organization and planning of field trips, family nights, and school celebrations.

Knowledge, Skill, and Work Experience Required: 
• Experience working with children in day care, preschool, or recreation setting.
• Knowledge of age appropriate activities and child development.
• Ability to take initiative and problem solve.
• Flexibility to assist with the physical set up and take down of programs.

•  Certification in advanced Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 1 month of employment.The District provides this training
•  Documentation of a current medical exam.
•  Mandated Reporter.
•  Must be fingerprinted and have a background check through DCFS.
•  3 letters of recommendation
•  Minimum 19 years of age
• Attend teacher meetings and trainings throughout the calendar year

Recommended:
• 1+ year