Pre-K Teacher Assistant (UPK)

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Healthy Kids Programs | Arlington Central School District |2026–2027 School Year

LOCATION: Arlington Central School District, NY

PAY: $18.00 - $19.00 per hour

HOURS : Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 2:15 pm

JOB STATUS: Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Help Shape a Child’s First School Experience

Healthy Kids Programs is seeking a Pre-K Teacher Assistant who is passionate about early childhood education and eager to help four-year-olds build the skills and confidence they need for future school success.

In this role, you will work under the direction of the Lead Teacher to help implement lesson plans and support daily classroom activities in a structured, nurturing Pre-K environment.

If you are creative, patient, culturally aware, and skilled at supporting diverse learners, this could be a great fit for you.

What Makes This Program Special

Our Pre-K program provides young children with a strong foundation through:

• Play-based, child-centered learning experiences
• Early literacy and numeracy development
• Social-emotional growth and positive peer interactions
• Support for diverse learning styles and individual needs
• A structured, nurturing environment that prepares children for Kindergarten

Featured Benefit: Employer-Paid Childcare

Healthy Kids Programs provides childcare for school-age children (ages 4–12) enrolled in our program on the days and during the hours you work. Employer contributions cover the cost of care, so you can focus on your job while your child participates in a safe, structured, and engaging program, all without needing to arrange outside care.

Why You’ll Love This Role

• You’ll see the real impact of your work every day as children grow and gain confidence
• You’ll be part of a supportive classroom team where collaboration matters
• You’ll work in a structured but creative environment that balances learning and play
• You’ll build meaningful relationships with children during key developmental years
• You’ll gain hands-on experience in early childhood education with opportunities to grow
• You’ll be part of a mission-driven organization focused on making childcare accessible and high-quality

Key Responsibilities

• Work under the direction of the Lead Teacher to support and carry out lesson plans, classroom activities, and daily routines
• Assist with implementing learning activities and supporting smooth classroom transitions
• Support children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development
• Provide close supervision and support children with personal care routines, including toileting and handwashing
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment
• Build positive, respectful relationships with children, families, and staff
• Support the Lead Teacher in addressing and planning for individual student needs
• Maintain consistent attendance to support classroom stability and UPK program requirements
• Complete additional tasks as assigned by the Lead Teacher or supervisor

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Teacher Assistant Certification required
• Associate’s degree in education or related field preferred
• Must successfully pass all required state background checks.
• Experience in childcare, early education, or classroom support preferred
• Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills
• Creativity and adaptability when working with young children
• Ability to remain active throughout the day in a hands-on classroom environment

Physical Requirements

This role is active and hands-on. You should be able to:

• Lift and carry children when necessary
• Bend, kneel, reach, run, and sit on the floor as part of classroom activities
• Supervise children closely at all times
• Lift up to 50 lbs. as needed

  PART-TIME BENEFITS:  

• Employer-paid childcare for school-age children (ages 4–12) enrolled in our program on the days and during the hours you are working with us 
• Telehealth, vision, and dental coverage 
• AFLAC supplemental plans 
• 401(k) for eligible employees 
• Paid sick time 
• On-demand pay – access earned wages before your scheduled payday for added financial flexibility 
• Career development and growth opportunities 

About Healthy Kids Programs Healthy Kids Programs is more than a childcare provider—we're shaping the future of childcare. As one of Inc. 5000's fastest-growing organizations, we provide Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs at more than 150 locations. As a certified Benefit Corporation, our mission is to make childcare accessible and affordable while creating meaningful opportunities for children, families, and our team members. 

Learn more about our team and culture:  

Healthy Kids Programs is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic. Hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs.