Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Pre-K Teacher Assistant Job DescriptionMacon County SchoolsPosition SummaryThe Pre-K Teacher Assistant supports the implementation of a high-quality early childhood program in accordance with North Carolina Pre-K (NC Pre-K) Program Requirements and the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Under the direction of a licensed Pre-K teacher, the assistant helps provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that promotes school readiness for children ages 3-5.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesAssist the Pre-K teacher in implementing instruction aligned with the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development, including:Approaches to Play and LearningEmotional and Social DevelopmentHealth and Physical DevelopmentLanguage Development and CommunicationCognitive DevelopmentSupport developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) through play-based, hands-on learning experiencesAssist with whole group, small group, and individualized instructionHelp maintain a structured daily schedule that supports learning, routines, meals, rest time, and transitionsPrepare and organize classroom materials, centers, and activitiesSupervise students in the classroom, playground, and other areas to ensure safety and engagementAssist with ongoing child assessment and documentation (e.g., portfolios, anecdotal notes, and approved assessment tools such as Teaching Strategies GOLD)Support students' social-emotional development, including positive behavior guidance and conflict resolutionAssist with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, hygiene, feeding) as neededMaintain a safe, clean, and healthy environment in accordance with NC Child Care Rules and NC Pre-K health and safety standardsBuild positive relationships with children and support family engagement effortsCommunicate effectively with the teacher regarding student progress and needsMaintain accurate records and assist with required documentation for NC Pre-K compliance and monitoringMaintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with FERPA and NC Pre-K guidelinesParticipate in required professional development and training related to early childhood education and NC Pre-K standardsFollow all Macon County Schools policies, procedures, and expectationsDemonstrate initiative, flexibility, and teamwork in supporting classroom and program operationsPerform other duties as assigned by the teacher or administrationKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities Basic knowledge of early childhood development (ages 3-5)Understanding of developmentally appropriate practices (DAP)Ability to support play-based and student-centered learningStrong organizational and classroom support skillsAbility to communicate effectively with young children and adultsAbility to work collaboratively as part of a teamPhysical Requirements Medium work classificationAbility to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds as neededAbility to lift and assist children for personal care needsFrequent standing, bending, kneeling, and active engagementEvaluation Performance will be evaluated in accordance with Macon County Schools evaluation procedures and at least annuallyTerms of Employment Full-time position with benefitsSalary based on Macon County Schools salary schedule and state guidelinesWork calendar consistent with NC Pre-K program requirementsBenefits Overview Medical, dental, and optional vision coverageParticipation in the NC Teachers' and State Employees' Retirement System (TSERS)Optional benefits (FSA, disability, life, etc.)Professional growth opportunities, including pathways toward teacher licensureMinimum QualificationsEducation (must meet one of the following): Associate degree or higher from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA; ORCompletion of at least 48 semester hours of college coursework (including core courses) with a minimum 2.5 GPA; ORWorkKeys Assessment with the following minimum scores:Applied Math: 4Workplace Documents: 4Business Writing: 3In addition, must complete two (2) college-level courses in math, reading, or technology within two academic years at employee expense and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPAAdditional Requirements: Must be at least 19 years of ageMust meet NC Pre-K Program assistant teacher requirementsEarly childhood coursework or experience preferred