Assistant Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. This position assists with implementing daily activities, supervising children, maintaining classroom organization, and building positive relationships with families. The Assistant Teacher works collaboratively with the classroom team to ensure high-quality care and education while maintaining compliance with state licensing requirements and Butterfly Bunch policies. Assistant Teachers are expected to step into the Lead Teacher role when necessary to ensure continuity of care.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Support

• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Prepare classroom materials and learning centers.
• Support large group, small group, and individual learning experiences.
• Supervise children during indoor play, outdoor play, meals, rest time, and transitions.
• Provide active supervision at all times.
• Assume classroom leadership when the Lead Teacher is absent.

Child Development

• Foster each child's cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and language development.
• Build positive relationships with every child.
• Encourage independence, problem-solving, and self-help skills.
• Use positive guidance techniques to support appropriate behavior.
• Observe and share children's progress with the Lead Teacher.

Health & Safety

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom.
• Follow all health, sanitation, and licensing regulations.
• Assist with diapering, toileting, handwashing, and other personal care routines as needed.
• Follow emergency procedures and participate in required drills.
• Report accidents, injuries, or concerns immediately.

Family Communication

• Welcome children and families each day.
• Maintain professional and positive communication with parents.
• Share daily information regarding meals, naps, activities, and classroom experiences through approved communication methods.
• Direct concerns regarding developmental progress or behavior to the Lead Teacher or management.

Teamwork & Professionalism

• Work cooperatively with the Lead Teacher and all Butterfly Bunch staff.
• Accept coaching and implement feedback.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and coworkers.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
• Demonstrate reliability, flexibility, and professionalism.

Program Compliance

• Follow all Butterfly Bunch policies and procedures.
• Comply with all Michigan Child Care Licensing Rules.
• Complete all required trainings and professional development by established deadlines.
• Maintain accurate attendance and classroom documentation.
• Assist with maintaining classroom portfolios, displays, and documentation.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience working with young children preferred.
• CPR, First Aid, and required health clearances (or willingness to obtain).

Preferred

• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or coursework in Early Childhood Education.
• Previous childcare or preschool experience.
• Familiarity with developmentally appropriate practices.

Skills & Competencies

• Positive and nurturing attitude toward children.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Dependable, organized, and adaptable.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education.

Work Schedule

• Up to 25 hours a week
• Hours based on classroom and center needs.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift up to 40 pounds.
• Sit, kneel, bend, squat, and move quickly throughout the classroom and playground.
• Work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to actively engage with children throughout the day.

Performance Expectations

Assistant Teachers are expected to:

• Provide attentive, responsive care to every child.
• Support the Lead Teacher in maintaining a high-quality classroom.
• Be prepared, punctual, and dependable.
• Maintain professionalism with children, families, and coworkers.
• Take initiative while working collaboratively as part of the Butterfly Bunch team.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.