Per Diem PreKindergarten Instructional Assistant (Trimester 1)

Derby Academy Trustees • Hingham, MA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Derby Academy, a Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 co-educational day school located in Hingham, Massachusetts, seeks an enthusiastic, well-qualified candidate for the position of Per Diem PreKindergarten Instructional Assistant Teacher. This is a full-time daily position for the first trimester of the school year, August 24 - November 24, 2026. Rooted in the school's motto, "Improve Both Mind and Heart," Derby's Primary School provides our youngest learners with a joyful, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate academic environment. The PreKindergarten Instructional Assistant supports the Lead Teachers in fostering early literacy, foundational math concepts, sensory- and play-based learning, and social-emotional growth. Our classroom culture is guided by the theory and practice of Responsive Classroom. The Instructional Assistant plays a key role in supporting daily routines, transitions, classroom management, and overall student well-being. All teachers have responsibilities that extend beyond the classroom as well, including playground and snack/dining supervision and carpool support. A collaborative spirit, warmth, and a growth mindset are essential for success in this role.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree (preferably in Early Childhood Education or a related field).
• Demonstrated experience working in an early childhood or PreK educational setting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment.
• Knowledge of early childhood development, self-regulation strategies, and play-based learning.
• Eligible to work in the U.S.A.
• Must satisfactorily complete all background checks as required by Massachusetts law.

Nice To Haves

• Deep knowledge of early childhood milestones and a patient, nurturing approach to supporting 4- to 5-year-olds.
• Skill in facilitating small-group activities, guiding sensory and hands-on learning centers, and supporting Lead Teachers with classroom setup, material preparation, and management.
• Experience helping young children navigate social interactions, build independence, manage transitions, and practice self-regulation skills.
• Contributions to a supportive and caring classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore and create.
• Attentiveness and consistent good judgment during outdoor play, snack/lunch, rest time, and arrival/dismissal carpool lines.
• A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, and an eagerness to engage in mission-driven learning and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Support Lead Teachers in fostering early literacy, foundational math concepts, sensory- and play-based learning, and social-emotional growth.
• Support daily routines, transitions, classroom management, and overall student well-being.
• Playground and snack/dining supervision.
• Carpool support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree