Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Macon County Schools • Franklin, NC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Pre-K Teacher Assistant supports the implementation of a high-quality early childhood program in accordance with North Carolina Pre-K (NC Pre-K) Program Requirements and the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Under the direction of a licensed Pre-K teacher, the assistant helps provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that promotes school readiness for children ages 3–5.

Requirements

• Basic knowledge of early childhood development (ages 3–5)
• Understanding of developmentally appropriate practices (DAP)
• Ability to support play-based and student-centered learning
• Strong organizational and classroom support skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with young children and adults
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Associate degree or higher from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA; OR Completion of at least 48 semester hours of college coursework (including core courses) with a minimum 2.5 GPA; OR WorkKeys Assessment with the following minimum scores: Applied Math: 4, Workplace Documents: 4, Business Writing: 3
• Must be at least 19 years of age
• Must meet NC Pre-K Program assistant teacher requirements

Nice To Haves

• Complete two (2) college-level courses in math, reading, or technology within two academic years at employee expense and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA
• Early childhood coursework or experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist the Pre-K teacher in implementing instruction aligned with the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development, including: Approaches to Play and Learning, Emotional and Social Development, Health and Physical Development, Language Development and Communication, Cognitive Development
• Support developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) through play-based, hands-on learning experiences
• Assist with whole group, small group, and individualized instruction
• Help maintain a structured daily schedule that supports learning, routines, meals, rest time, and transitions
• Prepare and organize classroom materials, centers, and activities
• Supervise students in the classroom, playground, and other areas to ensure safety and engagement
• Assist with ongoing child assessment and documentation (e.g., portfolios, anecdotal notes, and approved assessment tools such as Teaching Strategies GOLD)
• Support students’ social-emotional development, including positive behavior guidance and conflict resolution
• Assist with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, hygiene, feeding) as needed
• Maintain a safe, clean, and healthy environment in accordance with NC Child Care Rules and NC Pre-K health and safety standards
• Build positive relationships with children and support family engagement efforts
• Communicate effectively with the teacher regarding student progress and needs
• Maintain accurate records and assist with required documentation for NC Pre-K compliance and monitoring
• Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with FERPA and NC Pre-K guidelines
• Participate in required professional development and training related to early childhood education and NC Pre-K standards
• Follow all Macon County Schools policies, procedures, and expectations
• Demonstrate initiative, flexibility, and teamwork in supporting classroom and program operations
• Perform other duties as assigned by the teacher or administration

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Optional vision coverage
• Participation in the NC Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS)
• Optional benefits (FSA, disability, life, etc.)
• Professional growth opportunities, including pathways toward teacher licensure

What This Job Offers

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