Assistant Preschool Educator

Employment Type: Full-time /Dual Role accompanied with direct service responsibilities

Location: Estelle S. Campbell Clubhouse (Lawrenceville)

Status: Salaried/Exempt

Hours: Mornings/ Afternoons M-F

Compensation: $37,000-$40,000 annually

The Role

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA), our Assistant Preschool Teachers play a vital role in creating safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environments where every child can thrive.

The Assistant Preschool Teacher works collaboratively with the Lead Preschool Teacher to support high-quality early childhood programming that promotes the cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development of children ages 3–5. This position assists with classroom instruction, daily routines, supervision, and family engagement while ensuring compliance with Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Chapter 3270 regulations, Keystone STARS expectations, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) safety standards.

The ideal candidate is nurturing, energetic, collaborative, and passionate about early childhood education while demonstrating a commitment to safety, professionalism, and continuous learning.

Responsibilities

High Quality Teaching and Learning

Support the Lead Preschool Teacher in implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences using Frog Street (or approved curriculum) aligned with Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards.

Assist in preparing classroom materials, learning centers, and daily activities.

Reinforce learning through small group instruction, one-on-one interactions, and guided play.

Encourage children's development across all developmental domains, including:

• Social-emotional development
• Language and literacy
• Mathematics
• Science and STEM
• Creative arts
• Gross and fine motor development
• Social studies
• Foster a positive classroom environment that encourages creativity, exploration, curiosity, and independence.
• Support classroom routines, transitions, meals, rest time, outdoor play, and daily schedules.
• Utilize positive behavior guidance techniques that promote self-regulation and healthy social interactions.

Child Assessment and Family Partnership

• Assist with observing and documenting children's developmental progress.
• Support developmental screenings and classroom assessments as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Help maintain accurate child portfolios and classroom documentation.
• Build positive relationships with families through daily communication and professional interactions.
• Participate in family engagement events and conferences as requested.

Safety and Supervision

• Maintain active supervision of children at all times using BGCA's "See, Hear, Direct, and Assess" supervision model.
• Ensure children's safety during classroom activities, playground time, field trips, meals, and transitions.
• Follow all BGCA Youth Protection Policies and organizational safety procedures.
• Assist in maintaining required staff-to-child ratios.
• Conduct routine classroom health and safety checks.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary classroom environment.
• Report accidents, injuries, illnesses, maintenance concerns, and suspected child abuse in accordance with organizational policies and mandated reporting laws.

Program Quality and Compliance

Support compliance with:

• Pennsylvania DHS Chapter 3270 Regulations
• Keystone STARS Standards
• Licensing Requirements
• CACFP requirements (when applicable)
• BGCA Youth Development Practices
• Assist with maintaining attendance, health, incident, medication, and classroom documentation.
• Help prepare classrooms for licensing visits, monitoring, and quality assessments.
• Participate in classroom observations, coaching, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

Youth Development and Club Experience

• Build caring, respectful relationships with every child.
• Encourage confidence, independence, cooperation, and problem-solving skills.
• Support high-quality implementation of the classroom curriculum.
• Engage children through meaningful conversations, guided play, and intentional interactions.
• Reinforce literacy, STEM, arts, outdoor learning, movement, and social-emotional learning experiences throughout the day.
• Celebrate children's accomplishments and developmental milestones.
• Serve as a positive role model who demonstrates professionalism, kindness, and respect.

Your Skills and Experiences

Successful candidates will possess:

• Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices for children ages 3–5.
• Understanding of or willingness to learn Pennsylvania DHS Chapter 3270 regulations and Keystone STARS standards.
• Ability to support curriculum implementation and engaging classroom experiences.
• Strong classroom management skills and the ability to implement positive behavior guidance strategies.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with children, families, and coworkers.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Commitment to exceptional customer service and positive family partnerships.
• Ability to work collaboratively with the Lead Preschool Teacher and multidisciplinary team.
• Strong time management, flexibility, and willingness to assist wherever needed.
• Basic proficiency with Google Workspace and classroom technology.
• Flexibility to participate in family engagement events, professional development, and organizational activities.

Requirements

Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Education, Early Childhood Education, or related field meeting PA DHS Chapter 3270 Group Supervisor qualifications.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience working with preschool-aged children.
• Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Strong classroom management and positive behavior support skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and basic technology applications.

Preferred

• CDA credential, Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education, or ability to meet Pennsylvania DHS Chapter 3270 Assistant Group Supervisor qualifications preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with preschool-aged children in a licensed childcare or early childhood setting preferred.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a teaching team.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment.
• Basic computer and technology skills.

Certifications and Clearances

CPR/Pediatric First Aid, Child Abuse Clearance, PA Criminal History, FBI Clearance, NSOR Certificate, TB Test, Mandated Reporter Training, and other required certifications must be obtained upon hire or within established timelines.

Who We Are

For over 135 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) has been a trailblazer in youth development, committed to unleashing the potential of every child. Rooted deeply in the values of safety, fun, and inclusivity, BGCWPA prides itself on cultivating an environment where every child and employee can flourish.

At the heart of our vision lies a commitment to providing opportunities that transcend boundaries. Through creative and forward-thinking programs, we aim to equip our youth with the skills, knowledge, and resilience necessary for a brighter future. BGCWPA is not merely an organization; it is a dynamic force that shapes destinies, cultivates dreams and empowers the leaders of tomorrow.

As a proud affiliate of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, BGCWPA aligns itself with a nationwide network of organizations dedicated to empowering young people. Our collective impact extends beyond our local community, fostering positive change on a national scale. Annually, BGCWPA reaches over 12,300 young individuals through a rich tapestry of innovative programs, services, and outreach initiatives.

Commitment to Inclusion

BGCWPA is committed to building a culturally diverse community and we believe in the importance of equity and inclusion. We understand that every individual brings a unique set of skills and experiences. While our job description lists specific qualifications, skills, and competencies, we also recognize that true potential can often transcend those lines. If you're enthusiastic about social impact and helping others succeed, even if you don't meet every qualification, we encourage you to apply.

We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. Our organization prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.