Preschool Assistant Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

At Serenity Islamic School, we are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Preschool Assistant Teacher to join our community in Rockaway, NJ. As an educator who is passionate about early childhood education and values child-centered learning, you will be part of a team that creates a positive and engaging classroom environment rooted in Islamic values. You will work closely with our Lead Teacher to support a calm and joyful classroom, helping to nurture each child's growth in faith, character, and learning.

What You'll Do

Supporting a Positive Classroom Environment

• Assist the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging atmosphere that encourages social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development in children
• Participate in planning and implementing daily routines, lessons, and activities that align with Creative Curriculum and Islamic values
• Model Islamic manners and character throughout the day, promoting a positive and respectful classroom culture
• Take on leadership roles in leading small groups, transitions, or full-group activities as directed by the Lead Teacher

Supporting Child Development and Guidance

• Contribute to children's growth and development through positive behavior guidance, redirection, and encouragement of independence, problem-solving, and self-help skills
• Engage with children during activities to extend learning through conversation and play, while observing and sharing notable moments or concerns with the Lead Teacher
• Prepare materials and set up learning centers under the Lead Teacher's direction, ensuring a clean, organized, and inviting classroom environment
• Support snack, mealtime, restroom routines, and rest time, maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all children

Family and Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain professionalism in all interactions with families, responding to their inquiries and concerns in a timely and respectful manner
• Arrive on time and prepared for the school day, attending staff meetings and trainings to stay updated on school policies and procedures
• Pursue ongoing growth in early childhood education, exploring new ideas and strategies to enhance teaching and learning
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times, upholding the school's high standards and expectations

Requirements

• Ability to pass a background check and fingerprinting per NJ licensing requirements
• Genuine love for working with young children
• Ability to follow direction, take initiative, and work collaboratively with a Lead Teacher
• Strong verbal communication skills with children, families, and colleagues
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Current (or willingness to obtain) CPR and First Aid certification
• Comfort with and respect for an Islamic learning environment
• Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs, sit on the floor, and remain active with young children throughout the day
• Patience, warmth, and a calm presence

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with play-based or Reggio-inspired learning
• Practicing Muslim with ability to model Islamic manners and support faith-based learning
• Prior experience in a preschool, daycare, or early childhood classroom
• Familiarity with Brightwheel or similar parent communication platforms
• Some college coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (or CDA credential)
• Basic Arabic or Quran knowledge appropriate for early childhood instruction

Benefits

• Sick Leave
• Child Care Discount
• Professional Development
• Paid school holidays (following the school calendar)
• Summer break (school-year position)
• Consistent Monday–Friday schedule, 8:30 AM–3:00 PM
• No evening or weekend hours
• Daily prayer accommodations and on-site Masjid (Islamic Center of Morris County)
• Faith-centered work environment
• Paid professional development opportunities and trainings
• Support for continuing education in early childhood
• CPR/First Aid certification provided or reimbursed
• Small, close-knit team with collaborative culture
• Supportive administration and engaged parent community
• Meaningful, mission-driven work