UPK Teaching Assistant (Cohoes)
1 month ago
Albany
Job DescriptionDescription: Position Title: UPK Teaching Assistant Performance Profile: Front Line Department: Universal Prekindergarten Work Location: Varies, Cohoes City School District Reports to: UPK Director Salary Range: From $16.00/hour Hours & Schedule: Monday - Friday, 37.5 hours/week Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Full-Time Benefits: Paid school holidays and breaks, sick leave, 401(k) w/match, health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, New York Paid Family Leave benefits, retirement benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and eligibility for additional third-party discounts. Note: This is a 10-month position (August 2025 - June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with the Cohoes City School District (CCSD). Overview: Universal Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistants play a vital role in supporting Lead Teachers in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years. This role follows the approved curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives of the respective school district to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for academic and social-emotional achievement. Working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, Teaching Assistants are responsible for assisting with classroom management and program delivery. Key Job Responsibilities: The following non-exhaustive list of job duties required for this position: Planning & Leadership: • Assist in creating and submitting weekly lesson plans based on approved curriculum and individual student needs., • Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to ensure all necessary materials and resources are prepared for classroom activities., • Help develop and implement creative, hands-on classroom activities aligned with predetermined units of study and student needs., • Utilize the Learning Without Tears curriculum in conjunction with the 2nd-Step program to facilitate both academic and social-emotional development., • Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to implement planned lessons and activities effectively., • Assist in delivering age-appropriate instruction in various subject areas, including early literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies., • Support small group activities and provide individualized attention to students as needed., • Complete required documentation accurately and timely, including progress reports, attendance records, progress monitoring forms, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates., • Provide guidance and support to ensure effective classroom management and a positive learning environment., • Adhere to and help enforce health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district., • Maintain a safe and secure learning environment for students by actively monitoring and addressing potential hazards., • Assist in implementing proper hygiene practices and routines among students., • Support the emotional well-being of students by fostering a nurturing and inclusive classroom atmosphere., • Remain alert to signs of child abuse or neglect and report concerns through appropriate channels., • Observe and document student progress, behavior, and developmental milestones., • Assist in identifying students who may need additional support or intervention., • Help implement individualized education plans (IEPs) or behavior plans as directed by the Lead Teacher., • Encourage student independence and self-help skills appropriate for their age and developmental level., • Promote positive social interactions among students and model appropriate behavior and communication. DISCLAIMER: The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job. Requirements: CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED: Education /Experience/Certification: • Preferred - Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education, • Minimum 1-2 years experience working in an Early Childhood setting, • Teaching Assistant Certification or current enrollment in certification program, • Experience with early childhood development and education, • Mandated Reporter Certification, • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, • Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate, • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment, • Proficient with Google Office Suite or related software, • Standing/walking for up to 7 hours per day, • Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds, • Fine motor coordination for computer work, • Regular verbal communication with children, staff, and parents The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Persons from diverse backgrounds including communities of color, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.