Preschool Assistant Teacher / 2026-2027 school year (part-time)

Description Incorporated in 1955 and encompassing more than 454 acres, the Mt. Prospect Park District provides outstanding recreational programs, events, parks, facilities and services. With seven primary facilities and 27 neighborhood parks, the Park District is an integral part of a thriving multi‑generational community. District open space includes two outdoor pools, biking and walking paths, a dog park and sizable space for outdoor athletic programming. The District covers over 11 square miles and serves a region of over a quarter million residents in Mount Prospect and surrounding communities. The Mt. Prospect Park District is a proud recipient of the 2026 Illinois Parks and Recreation Association Exceptional Workplace Award. Position Overview We are searching for a part‑time Preschool Assistant Teacher responsible for assisting in teaching preschool‑age children, as well as planning, organizing, and implementing day‑to‑day preschool activities under the direct supervision of the Early Childhood and Youth Manager. The part‑time Preschool Assistant Teacher can expect to work Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM, and/or Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12:00 PM – 4:15 PM, beginning in September through May (school year), with staff meetings beginning in mid‑August. The part‑time Preschool Assistant Teacher must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check. Compensation and Benefits The pay rate for the part‑time Preschool Assistant Teacher is $16.00+/hour, depending on qualifications. Park District employees receive facility privileges. Essential Duties Assist the Lead Teacher in supervising program activities, including classroom preparation, clean‑up, behavior management, leading activities, and ensuring a successful preschool classroom. Understand the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social needs of children ages 2.5–5 years. Work the specified shifts in a school‑year schedule. Demonstrate knowledge of developmental learning progressions and the ability to assess children’s needs. Provide a variety of age‑appropriate and relevant activities and materials. Establish positive and nurturing relationships with all children in the program. Interact and build relationships with parents. Help maintain a clean and organized classroom to provide a warm, safe environment for children to learn and grow. Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher and other preschool instructors. Perform the job safely and in compliance with Park District policies, procedures, and safety rules. Administer first aid when required. Dress in appropriate attire in accordance with the handbook. Attend required training and meetings. Attend all preschool staff meetings, open houses, and other special events as scheduled and directed by the Early Childhood & Youth Manager. Integrate all children in a positive and respectful manner. Secondary Duties Perform additional duties or special projects as assigned, which may be considered essential. Maintain a neat and orderly work environment; return supplies and equipment to the appropriate location when finished. Carry out all other duties as assigned by the Early Childhood and Youth Manager, Director of Recreation, and/or Executive Director. In emergencies, perform all other duties as required. Qualifications Must be a high school graduate with early childhood experience. Must be able to care for, work with, and relate to children. Must be able to maintain positive and effective working relationships with employees, children, and the general public. Must display a pleasant personality. Must have a solid work record demonstrating a positive attitude, reliability, initiative, tact, and productivity. Must possess the capacity to remain composed during periods of high activity and in emergency situations. Must be able to follow tasks through to completion. Must be able to work in a team atmosphere, promoting positive work relationships with supervisors and co‑workers. Must demonstrate leadership qualities to perform required work. Must be self‑motivated and able to achieve assigned goals. Physical Requirements The Preschool Assistant Teacher will be required to regularly squat to a child’s level, stand and walk for extended periods, sit in child‑size chairs, lift 20+ pounds, and demonstrate large and small motor movements. The general indoor work area is a smoke‑free environment with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting. Exposure to noise from employees or equipment operation in adjacent work areas may occur. May be exposed to cleaning materials. Additionally, the Preschool Assistant Teacher may be exposed to outdoor weather conditions, including wind, humidity, and hot/cold temperatures. Work Hours & Conditions Due to the needs of the Park District, evening and weekend hours may be required. Your work schedule may vary and work week may exceed regular work hours at times but will not exceed 1,000 hours per year. Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position. Other Nothing contained herein shall preclude or limit the Park District from changing this written job description through addition, deletion or modification of essential job duties. The Mt. Prospect Park District is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Mt. Prospect Park District