Pre-K Assistant Teacher

Academy of Arts & Knowledge•Fort Collins, CO

About The Position

The Pre-K Assistant Teacher is responsible for supporting the teacher to create a safe, nurturing and stimulating learning environment for young children. Responsibilities include assisting with implementing developmentally appropriate activities aligning with early childhood education standards, classroom management, providing individual attention to students and fostering their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Support the teacher by preparing materials and assist in implementing developmentally appropriate activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. This position works with typically developing children, children acquiring more than one language and children with disabilities. Assistance is given to the Lead Teacher in carrying out the goals, policies and procedures and most importantly safety of all children. This position requires proficiency in the upkeep of observations that are given to the Lead Teacher in a timely manner to be entered into our online assessment system-Teaching Strategies Gold. This position reports directly to the Program Director as well as following all guidelines and tasks from the Lead Teacher.

Requirements

Minimum requirement is 18 years of age
Must meet one of the following options: Completed one early childhood education course (ECE 101 or ECE 103) with a course grade of "C" or better and currently enrolled/attending in a second ECE course and (12) months of (1,820 hours) of verified work experience in the care and supervision of four or more children less than 6 years of age who are not related to the individual. Completed two early childhood education courses, one course must be (ECE 101 or ECE 103) with a grade of "C" or better with 6 months (910 hours) of verified experience. Obtained a B.A. or A.A. in a field unrelated (listed below) to early childhood education requires 6 ECE credit hours with one of the courses either ECE 101 or ECE 103. B.A. or A.A. in a field related to early childhood education does not require any additional coursework or hours of experience. 1. Child Development; 2. Child Psychology; 3. Early Childhood Education; 4. Early Childhood Special Education; 5. Educational Leadership and Administration; 6. Elementary Education; 7. Family and Human Development; 8. Family Studies; or,9. Special Education, from an accredited college or university. A current Teaching License issued by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) with an endorsement in the area of Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Special Education, Early Childhood Special Education Specialist or Elementary Education. Eighteen (18) semester credit hours from an accredited college or university in Early Childhood Education. One (1) of the courses must be either ECE 101 or ECE 103.
CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
Experience working with young children in an educational setting.
Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

Passion for early childhood education.
Ability to help implement engaging and interactive lesson plans.
Knowledge of child development best practices.
Team-oriented and adaptable.
Knowledge in TS Gold

Responsibilities

Support the teacher with implementing age-appropriate lesson plans that align with early childhood education standards.
Direct supervision of the children in the classroom setting and outdoors is required at ALL times. Supervision of children is the main priority.
Supports social and emotional development and provides positive guidance and discipline.
Assist lead teacher in preparation for small groups.
Assist lead teacher in preparation for art projects and learning experiences.
Interact appropriately with children to provide opportunities to develop self-esteem and social competence.
Encourage self-expression, social-emotional growth, and foster their excitement to learn.
Always ensure safety and well-being of the children, this includes physical well-being, social well-being and emotional well-being.
Foster a play-based and hands-on learning environment that encourages exploration.
Foster the integration of literacy, math, cognitive, science, art, and motor skills development into daily activities.
Foster the use of storytelling, music, games, and other interactive methods to engage children.
Daily observations of the children will be taken and any photos/observations are to be submitted to the lead teacher in a timely manner.
Assumes the responsibility of the Lead Teacher when the Lead Teacher is absent.
Counts children at every transition period to ensure all children are accounted for.
Maintain open communication with parents/guardians regarding child development and progress.
Work collaboratively with the lead teacher, support staff, and administration.
Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.
Interact positively with parents and families.
When a family or parent expresses a concern or asks a question regarding their child's learning, growth or development, refer the parent to get in contact with the lead teacher and always alert the lead teacher so they know to reach out to the family.
Ensure a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment.
Follow health and safety protocols, including hygiene and emergency procedures.
Supervise children at all times, including outdoor play and transitions.
Assist with sanitizing all toys and play areas when needed.