(Glendale) Preschool Assistant Teacher (October Start)

Sun Valley Academy • Glendale, AZ

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Sun Valley Education is seeking a caring, dependable, student- and family-centered professional to support the daily operations of its Preschool program. The Assistant Preschool Teacher helps create a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment where young children can learn, grow, and thrive. The role works under the direction of the Preschool Lead Teacher and supports planning, organizing, and implementing daily activities, weekly lesson plans, special events, and family engagement opportunities. It involves working closely with young children, families, and school staff in a fast-paced early childhood learning environment.

The position is full-time and non-exempt, based in Glendale, with a stated salary of $18 per hour. The posting identifies an October start but does not specify a year or exact start date.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Actively working toward an Early Childhood Education certification, Child Development Associate credential, or degree in a related field.
• At least two years of previous experience working with preschool-aged children.
• At least 18 years of age and able to independently care for a large group of children in a classroom environment.
• Level One IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card, or ability to obtain one before employment.
• Successful completion of required background checks.
• Current TB test results dated within the previous year.
• Maintain current CPR and First Aid certification; these must be completed in person.
• Valid Food Handler's Card.
• Register with the Arizona Registry upon hire.
• Complete required annual training to fulfill applicable licensing and professional development requirements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft programs.
• Dependable transportation.
• Knowledge of preschool-aged children and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Strong verbal and written communication, organizational, interpersonal, and customer service skills, with attention to detail and ability to follow written and oral directions.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage classroom responsibilities with minimal supervision.
• Reliability, punctuality, professional judgment, a strong work ethic, and the ability to maintain a positive, collaborative, professional attitude in a fast-paced early childhood environment.
• Commitment to high-quality, student- and family-centered care and serving as a positive role model.
• Ability to perform the physical activities required to manage an active preschool classroom and maintain children's safety and supervision, including lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to perform duties in varying weather conditions and indoor and outdoor temperatures.

Nice To Haves

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field.
• Current CDA or other Early Childhood Education credential.
• Experience working in a preschool, childcare, school, or early childhood education setting.
• Experience developing and implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Experience communicating with families and supporting family engagement.
• Experience with child assessments, parent-teacher conferences, or classroom documentation.
• Familiarity with Arizona early childhood education requirements and licensing standards.
• Experience using Class Dojo, Microsoft programs, or other classroom communication and administrative tools.

Responsibilities

• Support the Preschool Lead Teacher with daily supervision, care, and coordination of the preschool program, maintaining a warm, safe, and inclusive environment.
• Assist with planning and implementing developmentally appropriate daily activities and weekly lesson plans aligned with the school's curriculum.
• Engage children in learning activities and play that promote development, exploration, independence, and positive social interactions.
• Maintain active supervision of children, ensure appropriate staff-to-child ratios, and position staff to keep children in clear view.
• Assist children with age-appropriate activities of daily living, including hand washing, family-style meals, and caring for the classroom environment.
• Prepare and maintain organized classrooms, activities, materials, and learning environments.
• Monitor classroom supplies and inventory and submit supply requests to the Director for approval.
• Build positive, professional relationships with children and families through daily interactions, Class Dojo, and other appropriate communication channels.
• Communicate and collaborate with preschool staff, school personnel, and leadership.
• Assist with attendance records, sign-in/out documentation, child assessments, and other required program records.
• Support parent-teacher conferences, family participation events, school functions, and other program activities.
• Report concerns involving children, coworkers, families, or program operations to the Lead Teacher or Director in a timely manner.
• Follow school policies, procedures, licensing requirements, and program expectations, and respond proactively to issues affecting safety or program quality.
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, school functions, and occasional events outside regular work hours.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including full medical benefits and a 401K retirement program.
• Smaller class sizes for teacher positions.
• Competitive salary.
• Warm, caring, and supportive work environment.
• Opportunities to lead after-school clubs and programs.
• Future growth opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED