Pre-K Teacher Assistant

Pre-K Teacher Assistant Job Description

Macon County Schools

Position Summary

The Pre-K Teacher Assistant supports the implementation of a high-quality early childhood program in accordance with North Carolina Pre-K (NC Pre-K) Program Requirements and the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development. Under the direction of a licensed Pre-K teacher, the assistant helps provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that promotes school readiness for children ages 3-5.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Pre-K teacher in implementing instruction aligned with the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development, including:
• Approaches to Play and Learning
• Emotional and Social Development
• Health and Physical Development
• Language Development and Communication
• Cognitive Development
• Support developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) through play-based, hands-on learning experiences
• Assist with whole group, small group, and individualized instruction
• Help maintain a structured daily schedule that supports learning, routines, meals, rest time, and transitions
• Prepare and organize classroom materials, centers, and activities
• Supervise students in the classroom, playground, and other areas to ensure safety and engagement
• Assist with ongoing child assessment and documentation (e.g., portfolios, anecdotal notes, and approved assessment tools such as Teaching Strategies GOLD)
• Support students' social-emotional development, including positive behavior guidance and conflict resolution
• Assist with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, hygiene, feeding) as needed
• Maintain a safe, clean, and healthy environment in accordance with NC Child Care Rules and NC Pre-K health and safety standards
• Build positive relationships with children and support family engagement efforts
• Communicate effectively with the teacher regarding student progress and needs
• Maintain accurate records and assist with required documentation for NC Pre-K compliance and monitoring
• Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with FERPA and NC Pre-K guidelines
• Participate in required professional development and training related to early childhood education and NC Pre-K standards
• Follow all Macon County Schools policies, procedures, and expectations
• Demonstrate initiative, flexibility, and teamwork in supporting classroom and program operations
• Perform other duties as assigned by the teacher or administration

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of early childhood development (ages 3-5)
• Understanding of developmentally appropriate practices (DAP)
• Ability to support play-based and student-centered learning
• Strong organizational and classroom support skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with young children and adults
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team

Physical Requirements

• Medium work classification
• Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds as needed
• Ability to lift and assist children for personal care needs
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, and active engagement

Evaluation

• Performance will be evaluated in accordance with Macon County Schools evaluation procedures and at least annually

Terms of Employment

• Full-time position with benefits
• Salary based on Macon County Schools salary schedule and state guidelines
• Work calendar consistent with NC Pre-K program requirements

Benefits Overview

• Medical, dental, and optional vision coverage
• Participation in the NC Teachers' and State Employees' Retirement System (TSERS)
• Optional benefits (FSA, disability, life, etc.)
• Professional growth opportunities, including pathways toward teacher licensure

Minimum Qualifications

Education (must meet one of the following):

• Associate degree or higher from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA; OR
• Completion of at least 48 semester hours of college coursework (including core courses) with a minimum 2.5 GPA; OR
• WorkKeys Assessment with the following minimum scores:
• Applied Math: 4
• Workplace Documents: 4
• Business Writing: 3
• In addition, must complete two (2) college-level courses in math, reading, or technology within two academic years at employee expense and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA

Additional Requirements:

• Must be at least 19 years of age
• Must meet NC Pre-K Program assistant teacher requirements
• Early childhood coursework or experience preferred