Cadence Academy Preschool
Location
Tumwater, Washington
Salary
$17 - $22 / HOUR
The Preschool Teacher Assistant supports daily classroom activities and the implementation of educational programs under the direction of the School Director and Lead Teacher. They are responsible for maintaining a safe, nurturing environment while assisting with the developmental, behavioral, and learning needs of all children.
Candidates must meet state licensing qualifications for a teacher assistant in a childcare center and possess the ability to follow safety and supervision protocols. While an associate or bachelor's degree in early childhood education is preferred, it is not strictly required if state licensing standards are met.
What You’ll Do Support a positive and respectful classroom environment, ensuring each child is treated with care, dignity, and respect. Greet children and families daily and help build professional, welcoming relationships. Assist in recognizing and responding to individual developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, including following IEPs and behavioral support plans as directed. Support classroom staff with planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and Cadence Signature Programs. Communicate professionally and respectfully with families, coworkers, and leadership using Cadence‑approved tools. Follow the Cadence Education Safety and Supervision Manual, including documenting and reporting accidents and incidents according to policy. Assist with managing, documenting, and reporting escalated child behaviors in accordance with Cadence procedures. Adhere to all Cadence Education policies and procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook. Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development, which may occur outside of regularly scheduled work hours. What We’re Looking For Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Ability to consistently follow safety procedures, including Name‑to‑Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle‑feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a classroom team. Ability to read, write, and speak effectively in English. Education Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred, but not required if state licensing requirements are met. Experience Must meet minimum experience and education requirements for the state of employment. Prior early childhood or classroom experience is preferred. Credentials & Licensing Must meet all state licensing qualifications for a Teacher Assistant in a licensed childcare center. Ability to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings. CDA preferred but not required if state requirements are satisfied. Scheduling Requirements (Please Review Carefully) Flexibility is essential. Schedules may change based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs. Work schedules may vary and are not guaranteed to be eight‑hour shifts. Daily start and end times may vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Market context
In Washington, Preschool Teacher Assistant openings are typically driven by ongoing demand for early learning support staff in licensed programs. These roles are competitive because employers often prefer candidates with an Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a CDA, along with state licensing qualifications and background clearances. Review the posted qualifications closely and compare the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here with the original job description to save research time before applying.