Teacher Assistant

Job Title: Full-Time Assistant (Teacher or Assistant Role)

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (1-hour lunch)
Pay Rate: $15 - $18 (Based on experience and qualifications)

Position Summary

We are expanding and are seeking a supportive, reliable Full-Time Assistant to join our preschool team in providing high-quality early childhood education. This role is critical in helping maintain structure, safety, and classroom consistency. The Full-Time Assistant works closely with the Lead Teacher to implement daily routines, support behavior management, and create a nurturing environment for children.

This position includes early morning classroom opening responsibilities and hands-on involvement throughout the day, aligned with the program’s mission and Illinois Early Learning Standards.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Support & Supervision

• Assist with classroom setup, transitions, and daily activities.
• Support small group work, centers-based learning, and one-on-one attention as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Actively supervise and engage with children in both structured and unstructured settings (indoor and outdoor).

Behavior Guidance & Safety

• Reinforce classroom behavior expectations using the Red Choice / Green Choice model.
• Maintain a calm, nurturing presence during routines and challenging moments.
• Follow all safety procedures and DCFS requirements regarding supervision, sanitation, and health protocols.
• Assist with restroom supervision, or accident clean-up when appropriate for younger students.

Team Collaboration & Compliance

• Communicate effectively with teachers and leadership to ensure classroom needs are met.
• Clock in/out accurately and follow attendance, tardiness, and timekeeping policies.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and required training.
• Use ProCare for check-in/out, documentation, and daily classroom updates as appropriate.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• One or more ECE college courses preferred.
• Enrollment in a CDA program or related credential a plus.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience working with children in a licensed child care or school setting preferred.
• Dependable, team-oriented, and enthusiastic about early childhood education.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds as part of routine classroom responsibilities, including lifting children, moving equipment, and assisting with setup or cleanup.

Working Relationships

• Report to the Preschool Director and Assistant Director.
• Partner closely with Lead Teachers and fellow Assistants or Floaters.
• Interact positively and respectfully with children, staff, and families.

Evaluation & Accountability

• Evaluated during the 30/60/90-day probationary period and annually thereafter.
• Performance is measured through reliability, initiative, classroom support, and alignment with preschool culture.
• May be placed on an improvement plan if expectations are not met.

Mission Alignment

The Full-Time Assistant helps uphold Peppermint Preschool’s mission by contributing to a faith-rooted, developmentally appropriate, and inclusive classroom environment. This role supports both learning and care by ensuring children feel safe, engaged, and supported each day.

Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person