Early Childhood Assistant Teacher - Full Time - Roland Park Country School

Job Title: Little Reds Assistant Teacher

Reports to: Director of Early Childhood Education

Full-Time, Non-Exempt Position

General Summary:

The Little Reds Assistant Teacher is a key member of the Early Childhood Education team, supporting the growth and development of children in a student-centered environment. This role involves working closely with the lead teachers to provide a nurturing and engaging atmosphere for young learners, ensuring their social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. The Little Reds Assistant Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, clean, and organized classroom while providing daily care for students and supporting interactive, hands-on learning experiences.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Preparation and Classroom Management:

• Build a positive and supportive classroom community with effective communication skills.
• Create an engaging environment based on the Reggio Emilia philosophy, accommodating individual, small, and large group activities.
• Maintain a clean and organized learning space, ensuring areas are well-maintained and accessible.
• Assist in preparing snacks, handling food safely, and maintaining cleanliness in meal areas.
• Assist with setting up and cleaning up after activities, and organizing classroom materials.
• Record observations on student engagement and learning for reflection and improvement.
• Ensure compliance with state regulations and school policies.

Teaching and Learning Support:

• Supervise children to ensure safe interactions with peers and the environment.
• Provide positive, age-appropriate interactions with students, modeling appropriate behavior.
• Assist with classroom routines, including rest time, outdoor play, and transitions.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to support student-led inquiry and project work based on student interests.
• Support language development and literacy by creating a print-rich environment with diverse learning materials.
• Foster problem-solving skills and positive citizenship, encouraging collaboration and respect.
• Implement multisensory teaching strategies, integrating outdoor learning, arts, and cultural events.
• Document student progress with photos and written reflections, and share updates via platforms like SeeSaw.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Build trusting relationships with staff, children, and families, increasing cultural competence to support diverse backgrounds.
• Address concerns and communicate student needs with the Director and families promptly.
• Maintain professionalism in interactions, responding to emails within 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays).
• Collaborate with colleagues and participate in regular team meetings.

Professional Development:

• Participate in ongoing evaluations, feedback sessions, and goal-setting to refine teaching practices.
• Stay updated on current research and best practices in early childhood education, particularly the Reggio Emilia philosophy.
• Maintain certification requirements, including CPR and First Aid, and attend professional development as required.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic proficiency in technology, including iPads and Google Suite.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise good judgment.
• Willingness to work extended hours, including nights and weekends, as needed.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required; 2+ years of experience in early childhood education preferred.
• Associate or bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education is highly desired.
• Completion or progress toward the 90-hour certification, including 45 hours in child development and 45 hours in preschool methods.
• Familiarity with the Reggio Emilia philosophy is a plus.
• CPR and First Aid Certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to climb stairs and assume low postures to interact with children.
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds and engage in physical activities such as walking, bending, squatting, and kneeling.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors as needed.

Work Conditions:

• Full-time, 12-month non-exempt position with a schedule of Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Occasional local travel may be required.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary Range: $18-20 per hour.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(B) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays.
• Access to professional development programs, wellness initiatives, and more.

School Philosophy:

Roland Park Country School is committed to fostering intellectual and moral growth, promoting creativity, and nurturing a resilient community. In a diverse and inclusive environment, RPCS encourages a love of learning and responsibility, preparing students to lead and serve in their communities.

Background Check:

Employment is contingent upon a satisfactory background check, including criminal records and employment history.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates must submit a resume and cover letter to hr@rpcs.org. References may be requested later in the process.