Assistant Preschool Teacher - OTR

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