Preschool Teaching Assistant

Kamehameha Schools

7d • $24 - $32 • Hybrid

About The Position

Kamehameha Schools is hiring a Preschool Teaching Assistant to support our Maui Preschool Region. This region includes locations at: Paukukalo (Wailuku), ʻA'apueo (Maui Campus), and Hana. This is a Regular, Full-time position with competitive compensation benefits. Come join our KS 'ohana and implement Hawaiian culture-based education as we grow the next generation of 'oiwi leaders!

The Teaching Assistant plays an integral role within the Preschool instructional team to enhance student learning by supporting the teacher in delivering a Hawaiian Culture-Based Education program that fosters Christian values. Ensures the safety and security of students while maintaining appropriate teacher-to-student ratios. Assists with planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities, providing direct instructional support through individual, small group, and large group interactions. Contributes to a positive learning environment, supports student assessments, and maintains communication with families to support each child's progress. Maintains required certifications to meet program needs.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Ability to obtain one of the following within 2 years of hire: Associates Degree in ECE, Associates Degree and 9 ECE credits, Child Development Associate (CDA) Certification, or 2 years of college (60 credits) with College Certificate of Recognition in Early Childhood (16 credits)
• Ability to become certified in Community First Aid and Pediatric CPR certified.
• Ability to acquire 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 the developmental needs of young children, with a focus on creating a nurturing and safe environment.
• Experience in maintaining a structured, safe classroom environment while supervising students independently or under the teacher’s direction.
• Proficiency in using classroom technology and educational tools for lesson support and student assessments.
• Ability to build strong relationships with students and their families to foster a positive learning environment.
• Team player, able to collaborate effectively with teachers and other staff.
• Adaptability in meeting the diverse needs of students and implementing individualized support strategies.

Nice To Haves

• Valid Driver's License
• Experience with early childhood behavior management strategies, such as Positive Behavior Support (PBS), or other age-appropriate behavior techniques
• 1 year of experience in a classroom setting, 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
• Community First Aid and Pediatric CPR certified
• Department of Health, Food Handler’s certified

Responsibilities

• Assists with daily classroom instruction by providing individual, small group, and large group support in line with lesson plans.
• Helps create and prepare instructional materials, contributing to the development of engaging learning resources tailored to students' needs.
• Supports the teacher in implementing lesson plans, ensuring effective delivery of content and student engagement.
• Facilitates group activities, encouraging cooperative learning and active participation.
• Observes students and documents behavior, progress, and development for teacher assessments.
• Supervises student behavior independently and under the teacher’s direction, employing early childhood behavior management strategies aligned with school policies and procedures.
• Supervises students in various settings, such as during breaks or group activities, to ensure safety and appropriate behavior.
• Assists in the preparation of classroom materials and maintaining classroom organization, including snack menu planning and supply management.
• Takes responsibility for maintaining a safe and healthy classroom environment by regularly scanning for safety concerns, ensuring proper sanitation of all areas, and adhering to Kamehameha Schools’ and state licensing health and safety policies and procedures.
• Maintains student records, including attendance and other necessary documentation, and communicates student needs to the teacher and other staff members.
• Actively participates in required professional development and training sessions, staying up-to-date with technology and educational practices relevant to early childhood education.
• Builds strong relationships with students’ families by maintaining open communication regarding their child’s behavior, learning progress, and developmental milestones.
• Engages in crucial conversations with families, providing constructive feedback and discussing strategies to address behavioral or learning challenges.
• Participates in home visits with the teacher to build relationships with families and provide progress updates.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation benefits
• Total Rewards Program
• Commitment to fostering a positive work environment
• Equipping employees with the necessary resources to excel every day
• Commitment to the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our employee ʻohana

What This Job Offers

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