UPK Teaching Assistant (Cohoes)

Job Title: Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistant

Department: Early Childhood Department

Reports to: Universal Prekindergarten Director (UPK Director)

Location: Varies by district (Albany, Cohoes, or Watervliet City School Districts)

Salary: From $16.00 per hour (varies by district)

Schedule: Mon-Fri, 37.5 hours/week, full-time, 10-month contract (August - June)

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.

Overview:

Universal Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistants play a vital role in supporting Lead Teachers in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years. This role follows the approved curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives of the respective school district to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for academic and social-emotional achievement. Working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, Teaching Assistants are responsible for assisting with classroom management and program delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

Planning & Leadership:

• Assist in creating and submitting weekly lesson plans based on approved curriculum and individual student needs.
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to ensure all necessary materials and resources are prepared for classroom activities.
• Help develop and implement creative, 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 both academic and social-emotional development.
• Actively participate in Professional Development opportunities offered by the school district and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area.

Program Delivery:

• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to implement planned lessons and activities effectively.
• Assist in delivering age-appropriate instruction in various subject areas, including early literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies.
• Support small group activities and provide individualized attention to students as needed.
• Complete required documentation accurately and timely, including progress reports, attendance records, progress monitoring forms, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.
• Provide guidance and support to ensure effective classroom management and a positive learning environment.
• Assist in organizing and maintaining an orderly, attractive, and stimulating classroom environment.

Health & Safety:

• Adhere to and help enforce health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.
• Maintain a safe and secure learning environment for students by actively monitoring and addressing potential hazards.
• Assist in implementing proper hygiene practices and routines among students.
• Support the emotional well-being of students by fostering a nurturing and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
• Remain alert to signs of child abuse or neglect and report concerns through appropriate channels.
• Assist in managing emergency situations according to established procedures.

Student Support and Development:

• Observe and document student progress, behavior, and developmental milestones.
• Assist in identifying students who may need additional support or intervention.
• Help implement individualized education plans (IEPs) or behavior plans as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Encourage student independence and self-help skills appropriate for their age and developmental level.
• Promote positive social interactions among students and model appropriate behavior and communication.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

Education /Experience/Certification:

• Preferred - Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education
• Minimum 1-2 years experience working in an Early Childhood setting
• Teaching Assistant Certification or current enrollment in certification program
• Experience with early childhood development and education
• Mandated Reporter Certification
• Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid Training

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Ability to work effectively with young children
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent time management skills
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and needs of students
• Proficient with MS Office, Google Drive & Docs, and email

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.