Preschool Teaching Assistant

Kamehameha Schools

2d • $27 - $36 • Onsite

About The Position

The Preschool Teaching Assistant supports the preschool instructional team in delivering a Hawaiian Culture-Based Education program that fosters Christian values. The role enhances student learning, maintains student safety and appropriate teacher-to-student ratios, and assists with developmentally appropriate instruction through individual, small-group, and large-group activities. The Teaching Assistant supports planning, student assessments, classroom organization, and communication with families. In the Teacher’s absence, the Teaching Assistant assumes responsibility for classroom management, instruction, and student supervision. Required certifications must be maintained to meet program needs.

The position is full-time, Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week, during normal business hours. It is based at Kapalama Preschool in Honolulu, Hawaii, and requires work indoors and outdoors at preschool and off-site locations. Travel to various locations, potentially including neighbor islands, may be required. The pay range is $27.19–$36.49 per hour, and the work year is 10 months.

Requirements

• One of the following educational credentials: an associate degree in ECE; an associate degree and 9 ECE credits; Child Development Associate (CDA) certification; or 2 years of college (60 credits) with a College Certificate of Recognition in Early Childhood (16 credits).
• At least 6 months of related work experience.
• Current Community First Aid and Pediatric CPR Certification.
• Current Department of Health Food Handler’s Certification.
• Ability to implement and support early childhood behavior management strategies that promote positive student behavior and classroom management.
• Patience and understanding of young children’s developmental needs, with a focus on a nurturing and safe environment.
• Experience maintaining a structured, safe classroom while supervising students independently or under a teacher’s direction.
• Proficiency using classroom technology and educational tools for lesson support and student assessments.
• Ability to build strong relationships with students and their families.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers and other staff.
• Adaptability in meeting diverse student needs and implementing individualized support strategies.

Nice To Haves

• Valid driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education (ECE).
• 2 years of classroom experience, ideally with preschool or early childhood students.
• Previous involvement in planning and implementing learning activities or assisting in instructional roles.
• Familiarity with culturally relevant curricula, especially Hawaiian culture-based education.
• College credits in ECE are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily classroom instruction through individual, small-group, and large-group support in line with lesson plans.
• Prepare instructional materials and help the teacher implement lesson plans and engage students.
• Facilitate group activities that encourage cooperative learning and participation.
• Observe students and document behavior, progress, and development for teacher assessments.
• Supervise students independently and under the teacher’s direction, using appropriate early childhood behavior management strategies and ensuring safety.
• Prepare classroom materials and maintain classroom organization, including snack menu planning and supply management.
• Maintain a safe and healthy classroom by identifying safety concerns, sanitizing areas, and following school and state health and safety policies.
• Maintain attendance and other student records, and communicate student needs to teachers and staff.
• Participate in required professional development and training, and stay current with relevant technology and early childhood education practices.
• Communicate with families about children’s behavior, learning progress, and developmental milestones; discuss constructive strategies for behavioral or learning challenges.
• Participate in home visits with the teacher to build family relationships and provide progress updates.
• In the Teacher’s absence, manage the classroom, deliver lessons, supervise students, and maintain continuity of the learning environment.
• Develop and implement lesson plans or follow teacher-prepared plans when substituting for the Teacher.
• Implement child assessment plans, conduct assessments regularly and accurately, and provide interventions or feedback to support student progress.
• Participate in regional staff development, training sessions, and meetings.

Benefits

• The employer describes a Total Rewards Program supporting employees’ physical, mental, and financial well-being and refers applicants to a Benefits Summary for details; specific benefits are not listed.

What This Job Offers

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