Assistant VPK Teacher

Little Spuds Early Learning Center | Pensacola, FL

Pay: $16.00–$18.00 per hour (based on qualifications and experience)

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
Please note: These hours are firm and non-negotiable.

Join Our Little Spuds Family!

Little Spuds Early Learning Center is seeking a dedicated, dependable, and enthusiastic VPK Assistant Teacher to join our team!

We are a high-quality early learning center committed to providing a structured, engaging, and nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore, think critically, develop independence, and build a lifelong love of learning.

We believe that exceptional early childhood education begins with exceptional teachers. We are looking for someone who shares our passion for early education, values teamwork, embraces high expectations, and understands the importance of intentional teaching and meaningful interactions with children.

Required Qualifications

• Must have completed all 45 hours of Florida DCF childcare training, along with all additional training and qualifications required to work in a Florida VPK classroom.
• Must be familiar with the CLASS (Classroom Assessment Scoring System) and understand the importance of positive teacher-child interactions, classroom organization, and instructional support.
• CDA (Child Development Associate) or FCCPC (Florida Child Care Professional Credential) is preferred.
• Previous experience working in a VPK or structured preschool classroom is strongly preferred.
• Must demonstrate strong classroom management skills and an understanding of developmentally appropriate practices.
• Must be dependable, punctual, organized, and able to follow an established classroom schedule and curriculum.
• Must communicate professionally and effectively with children, families, and coworkers.
• Must meet all applicable Florida DCF background screening and employment requirements.

Responsibilities

• Support the Lead VPK Teacher in implementing engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons and daily classroom activities.
• Assist with our established curriculum, including Frog Street, Heggerty Phonemic Awareness, early literacy, mathematics, and hands-on learning experiences.
• Utilize CLASS-aligned teaching practices to encourage meaningful conversations, higher-order thinking, problem-solving, and positive classroom interactions.
• Assist with teacher-directed small-group instruction while supporting children's independence during learning centers.
• Maintain a clean, organized, safe, and inviting classroom environment.
• Support positive behavior guidance, social-emotional development, and conflict-resolution strategies.
• Assist with classroom observations, assessments, documentation, and student progress monitoring.
• Follow all center policies, classroom procedures, licensing regulations, and safety expectations.
• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher and administration to ensure consistency, accountability, and a positive learning environment.

What We Value at Little Spuds

At Little Spuds, we take early childhood education seriously while making learning exciting and meaningful for our students.

Our ideal candidate is someone who:

• Takes initiative and recognizes what needs to be done without constant direction.
• Is a team player who supports coworkers and contributes to a positive workplace culture.
• Is coachable and welcomes constructive feedback and opportunities for professional growth.
• Maintains high standards for classroom organization, professionalism, and student engagement.
• Is actively involved with children rather than simply supervising them.
• Is consistent and dependable, understanding that children thrive on routines and stability.
• Has a genuine passion for early childhood education and understands the responsibility that comes with preparing children for kindergarten.

Schedule & Compensation

Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM

Pay: $16.00–$18.00 per hour, depending on experience, credentials, and qualifications.

Important: The 7:00 AM–4:00 PM schedule is a required part of this position and is non-negotiable. Applicants must be able to consistently work these hours.

Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Work Location: In person