Assistant Teacher

Job description:

Support the Classroom. Build Connections. Help Shape Early Learning.

First Learning is one of North America’s Top 50 for-profit childcare organizations, and we are continuing to grow across New York.

Founded in 1991 with the opening of Care-a-Lot’s first childcare center in Greece, NY, our organization has built a long-standing reputation for exceptional early childhood education. In recent years, we have expanded through the addition of Generations Child Care, Storybook Academy, Island Kids, and Windsor Academy—bringing together multiple respected programs under one unified organization: First Learning.

Today, we operate a growing network of early learning centers dedicated to providing high-quality education, strong leadership, and outstanding family experiences.

We are seeking an Assistant Teacher who is enthusiastic, dependable, and passionate about supporting young children’s growth and development in a collaborative classroom environment.

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The Role

The Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with children, thrives in a team setting, and is eager to grow within the field of early childhood education.

You will be responsible for:

· Supporting classroom routines and daily activities

· Assisting with child supervision and care

· Building positive relationships with children and families

· Maintaining a clean, safe, and organized classroom

· Supporting compliance with New York State regulations and company policies

This position reports to the Center Director and works closely with the Lead Teacher and classroom team.

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Key Responsibilities

Classroom Support

· Assist in implementing daily activities and routines under the direction of the Lead Teacher

· Provide attentive supervision and care for all children in the classroom

· Help maintain a safe, clean, and organized learning environment

· Step into different classrooms as needed to support staffing and ratio requirements

Child Engagement

· Build positive, supportive relationships with children

· Encourage social, emotional, and developmental growth through play and interaction

· Promote a positive and fun classroom atmosphere

Family Communication

· Communicate daily with families regarding children’s activities and experiences

· Support a welcoming and professional environment for families

· Maintain confidentiality in all family and child-related matters

Team Collaboration

· Work collaboratively with Lead Teachers and other staff members

· Maintain open and respectful communication with team members and leadership

· Contribute to a positive, team-oriented workplace culture

Compliance & Documentation

· Assist with maintaining classroom records and required documentation

· Follow OCFS regulations, health and safety guidelines, and company policies

· Support proper supervision standards at all times

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Qualifications

Candidates must meet New York State requirements for Assistant Teachers in a licensed childcare setting.

Typical qualifications include:

· High school diploma or equivalent

· Must be at least 18 years of age

Preferred experience:

· At least 1 year of experience working with children

· Experience in a childcare or early education setting

· Strong communication and teamwork skills

· Positive, flexible, and reliable work ethic

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Who Succeeds in This Role

Our strongest Assistant Teachers:

· Bring energy, positivity, and patience to the classroom

· Enjoy working as part of a team

· Are flexible and willing to support where needed

· Build strong relationships with children and families

· Are eager to learn and grow within early childhood education

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Career Growth Opportunities

At First Learning, we believe in developing future educators and leaders.

Assistant Teachers have opportunities to:

· Advance into Lead Teacher roles

· Receive training and support toward CDA or additional education

· Take on increased classroom responsibilities over time

· Grow within a multi-site, expanding organization

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Vision insurance