Preschool Paraprofessional (Teacher’s Aide)

Job Description and Requirements

Position Summary

The Preschool Paraprofessional (Teacher’s Aide) supports the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, caring, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children ages 3–5 years. The paraprofessional assists with classroom instruction, supervision, daily routines, and classroom management while fostering each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. This position works collaboratively with teachers, staff, families, and volunteers to ensure the smooth operation of the classroom and promote a positive preschool experience for every child.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Classroom Support:

1. Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing daily lesson plans and classroom activities.
2. Help prepare and organize classroom materials and learning centers.
3. Support children during individual, small-group, and whole-group activities.
4. Reinforce learning concepts introduced by the Lead Teacher.
5. Encourage children’s independence while providing appropriate assistance.
6. Assist with transitions between classroom activities.

Student Supervision:

1. Provide active supervision of children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being.
2. Monitor children during indoor play, outdoor play, snacks, rest time, and classroom transitions.
3. Maintain appropriate child-to-staff ratios.
4. Redirect inappropriate behaviors using positive guidance techniques.
5. Model respectful communication and positive social interactions.

Classroom Environment:

1. Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom.
2. Assist with setting up and rotating learning centers and classroom displays.
3. Clean and sanitize toys, tables, and classroom materials according to health and safety procedures.
4. Report damaged equipment or safety concerns promptly.
5. Assist with classroom decorating and seasonal displays.

Daily Care Routines:

1. Assist children with handwashing, toileting, dressing, and other self-help skills as needed while promoting independence.
2. Supervise snack times.
3. Encourage proper hygiene and healthy habits.
4. Help manage children’s personal belongings.

Child Development:

1. Foster children’s social, emotional, language, and cognitive development through positive interactions.
2. Encourage problem-solving, cooperation, and conflict resolution.
3. Support students with diverse learning needs and accommodations as directed by the teacher or individualized education plans (IEPs), when applicable.
4. Observe children’s behavior and report concerns or notable progress to the Lead Teacher.
5. Celebrate children’s accomplishments and encourage self-confidence.

Family Interaction:

1. Greet children and families in a warm, friendly, and professional manner.
2. Communicate routine classroom information to families as directed by the Lead Teacher or Administrative Director.
3. Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff.

Health and Safety:

1. Follow all preschool policies and licensing regulations.
2. Maintain a safe classroom environment by identifying and addressing potential hazards.
3. Assist during emergency drills and emergency situations.
4. Follow proper health, sanitation, and illness procedures.
5. Immediately report injuries, incidents, or concerns to the Lead Teacher or Administrative Director.

Team Collaboration:

1. Work cooperatively with teachers, administrators, volunteers, and board members.
2. Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities as required.
3. Provide classroom coverage when requested and within licensing requirements.
4. Support substitute teachers by helping them understand classroom routines and expectations.
5. Maintain a professional, positive, and flexible attitude.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Prepare classroom materials, copies, art projects, and instructional resources.
2. Assist with school events, celebrations, field trips, and special activities.
3. Help inventory and organize classroom supplies.
4. Perform light housekeeping duties related to the classroom, including sweeping, wiping tables, organizing materials, and maintaining a clean learning environment.
5. Perform other duties as assigned by the Lead Teacher or Administrative Director.

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Qualifications

Required

1. High school diploma or GED.
2. Ability to work effectively with young children in a nurturing and patient manner.
3. Strong communication and teamwork skills.
4. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
5. Ability to meet state licensing requirements for preschool staff.
6. Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within a specified timeframe).
7. Successful completion of required background checks.

Preferred

1. Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent.
2. Associate’s degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
3. Previous experience working with preschool-aged children in a childcare or educational setting.
4. Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for children ages 3–5.

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Physical Requirements

1. Frequently sit on the floor, kneel, bend, squat, and move quickly to supervise children.
2. Lift, carry, and assist children weighing up to 40 pounds as needed.
3. Push, pull, and move classroom furniture or equipment.
4. Spend extended periods standing and walking throughout the school day.
5. Participate in outdoor activities in various weather conditions.
6. Maintain the physical ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

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Professional Expectations

The Preschool Paraprofessional is expected to:

1. Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and punctuality.
2. Maintain a positive, caring, and respectful attitude toward children, families, coworkers, and volunteers.
3. Serve as a positive role model through words, actions, and appearance.
4. Follow all preschool policies, procedures, and licensing regulations.
5. Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, staff, and school business.
6. Participate in ongoing professional development and required training.
7. Support the preschool’s mission by fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and child-centered learning environment.

The Preschool Paraprofessional plays a vital role in helping create a safe, engaging, and supportive classroom where young children can grow academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Working under the guidance of the Lead Teacher, the paraprofessional contributes to a positive preschool experience for every child and family.