Teaching Assistant (COHOES)

Job Type Full-time, Contract, Temporary Description

Job Title: Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assitant 

Department: Early Childhood Department

Reports to: Universal Prekindergarten Director (UPK Director)

Location: Varies - Cohoes City School District Elementary School

Salary: $16.00 an hour/10-month contract

Benefits: Sick time, paid school holidays and school breaks, 401K, health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement benefits, and eligibility for additional third-party discounts.

This is a 10-month contracted position working for BGCCA in collaboration with the Cohoes City School District (CCSD). (August 2024 - June 2025)

Overview of Your Role

Universal Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistants will play a vital role in supporting the Pre-Kindergarten Teacher in planning, developing, and instructing students 3-4 years of age. This role will follow the approved Cohoes City School District (CCSD) curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives to create a nurturing and stimulating academic and social-emotional achievement environment. This role will work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher and be responsible for assisting with classroom management and program delivery. 

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities):

Planning & Leadership

• Assist in the creation and submission of weekly lesson plans based on the approved curriculum and individual student needs.
• Collaborate with the Prekindergarten Teacher to ensure all necessary materials and resources are prepared for classroom activities.
• Assist in delivering creative and hands-on classroom activities aligned with predetermined units of study and student needs.
• Utilize the Learning Without Tears curriculum in conjunction with the 2nd-Step program to facilitate academic and social-emotional development.
• Participate in offered Professional Development opportunities by the Cohoes City School District and the BGCA.

Program Delivery

• Work collaboratively with the Prekindergarten Teacher to implement planned lessons and activities.
• Deliver creative, hands-on classroom activities based on predetermined units of study and students' needs.
• Complete progress reports, attendance, progress monitoring, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates, and complete any additional required paperwork in a timely manner.
• Provide support and guidance to the Teaching Assistant to ensure effective classroom instruction.
• Engage in regular communication and coordination with the Prekindergarten Teacher and other team members.

Health & Safety

• Adhere to and enforce health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.
• Maintain a safe and secure learning environment for students, actively monitoring and addressing potential hazards.

Relationships:

Internal: Communicate with UPK Director, fellow Prekindergarten Teachers, Teaching Assistants, CCSD staff, and students to work together, instruct, discuss issues, and receive/provide information.

External: Maintain open lines of communication with parents, CCSD staff, and School Administration, to maintain the success of daily programming.

Requirements

CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• Background check clearance (State Ed.).
• Possession of a valid photo ID.
• Prior experience working with young children in an educational setting is desirable.
• Associate's Degree in Early Childhood OR experience working in an Early Childhood setting.
• Teaching Assistant Certification, OR currently enrolled in a certification program. 
• Mandated Reporter Certification
• Strong Computer Skills (Ms. Office, Google Drive & Docs, Email)
• Strong Verbal and Written communication
• Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid Training

Physical Requirements:

This job may require extended periods of standing, walking, and engaging in physical activities with children. The ability to lift up to 25 pounds may also be necessary.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Persons from diverse backgrounds including communities of color, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.