Assistant Teacher

Mission & Core Values

Children of Joy Learning Academy is a faith-based, service-driven early education center rooted in the values of Faith, Education, Service, and Community. We believe every child deserves a nurturing, joyful, and enriching environment. Our Assistant Teachers are vital to supporting the growth of each child, partnering with Lead Teachers to deliver intentional instruction and care that helps children thrive cognitively, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

We seek team members who are dependable, kind, willing to grow, and passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of children.

Job Summary

The Assistant Teacher works under the direction of the Lead Teacher and administrative team to provide a safe, clean, supportive, and enriching learning environment. Assistant Teachers help implement the curriculum, manage daily routines, assist with classroom organization, and ensure that all children are nurtured, supervised, and engaged throughout the day.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Day-to-Day Child Care

• Help create a safe and welcoming classroom environment
• Feed children healthy, center-approved meals and snacks
• Change diapers every two hours or as needed; assist potty-trained children with restroom needs
• Use ProCare to document meals, toileting, naps, and parent communication
• Support children in their self-regulation and emotional needs with compassion and patience
• Report injuries or illnesses to the Lead Teacher and administration immediately
• Comfort children during naptime through soothing techniques (e.g., rubbing backs, rocking, reading)
• Follow individual schedules for infants as provided by families

Curriculum Support & Learning Environment

• Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing age-appropriate lesson plans
• Set up engaging learning centers aligned with curriculum themes (art, sensory, literacy, math, science)
• Ensure sensory-play options are available and rotated regularly
• Help maintain and decorate the classroom and learning boards
• Model and support positive behavior using appropriate strategies—no yelling, shaming, or physical discipline
• Collaborate with the teaching team to manage behavior and classroom routines effectively

Compliance & Professional Responsibilities

• Always Maintain child-to-teacher ratios; do not leave classroom unattended
• Complete daily cleaning tasks and help follow closing checklist
• Keep classroom and playground free from hazards; report unsafe conditions immediately
• Attend staff meetings and professional development sessions
• Complete required DHS training hours and COJ-specific training annually
• Limit personal cell phone use to break times only (not in classroom)
• Always maintain confidentiality of children and families

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• At least 1 year of experience working with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years
• Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Pediatric First Aid/CPR and ELCCT (within 90 days of employment)

Preferred Qualifications & Competencies

• Reliable, punctual, and adaptable to changing classroom needs
• Ability to remain calm and composed in a fast-paced, sometimes noisy environment
• Team player with strong communication skills
• Willingness to learn and grow through feedback and training
• Reliable transportation
• Always maintains a professional attitude and appearance

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit on the floor, bend, squat, stand, run, and lift children up to 50 lbs
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations
• Must be able to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions

Performance Evaluation

Performance will be monitored by the Lead Teacher and administration, with formal evaluations at 30 days, 90 days, and annually. Feedback and coaching will be provided to support your success and professional growth.