The Preschool Assistant Teacher supports teaching staff in a Head Start classroom for children aged 3 to 5. Responsibilities include implementing a child-centered curriculum, managing challenging behaviors, and partnering with families to ensure positive outcomes.
Requirements summary
Candidates must have a CDA credential, a degree in Early Childhood Education, or be enrolled in a relevant program. CPR and First Aid certifications, along with a physical exam and background check, are also required.
associate degreebachelor degreeprofessional certificateCPRBehavior ManagementCurriculum ImplementationClassroom ManagementData CollectionStakeholder CommunicationFirst AidFamily EngagementChild Growth and DevelopmentSocial and Emotional Development
Job description
Are you a socially conscious, dedicated individual who is committed to building a better future for children, families, and their communities?
If so, join us as we support early childhood education programs across the country to create positive outcomes for the children and families served.
The Preschool Assistant Teacher is responsible for assisting teaching staff in a Head Start classroom for 3- to 5-year-old children.
This position uses knowledge of the principles of child growth and development to work with children and communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
The incumbent works collaboratively with the teacher, family members, and other staff to achieve positive outcomes for children of all abilities.
Why Acelero?
Our mission is bold: To design and deliver research and evidence-based approaches to eliminate the gaps between young childrenʼs inherent potential and their achievement in school and life.
With our partners, we accelerate child and family outcomes that honor all of the aspirations and cultures of the communities we serve.
Our values: Data-Informed Learning; Transparent & Open Communication; Growth Mindset; Championing Equality; Caring Teams & Communities.
What You’ll Do: - Implements a child-centered curriculum and learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation to promote development in all domains for children of all abilities. - Supports the social and emotional development of children. - Addresses challenging behaviors by observing to determine possible causes of the behavior, implementing preventive measures, teaching the child new social and communication skills and partnering with families to support the child at home. - Gathers and maintains individual, family and classroom data for documentation, on-going assessment, evaluation, and recording keeping for successful individual and program planning. - Creates partnerships and encourages the involvement of the families in a Head Start program to establish positive interaction patterns in program, school, and home. - Works with Family Advocates to ensure coordinated services meet the needs of individual children and families, which includes participating in case conferences as appropriate. - Maintains a safe, healthy learning environment. - Conducts daily health checks. - Participates in assigned meetings, events and training as required.
What You’ll Bring: 1.
CDA credential, OR proof of enrollment in coursework on track for completion within one year of hire, OR a degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with at least nine (9) credits in Early Childhood Education, OR enrolled to complete a degree (with related credits) within one year of hire required.
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Vision Insurance
Long-Term Disability Insurance
Medical Insurance
Short-Term Disability Insurance
Basic Life Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Pet Insurance
Wellness Programs
Legal Assistance
ID Theft Protection
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Professional Development Reimbursements
Employee Discount Perks
2.
Must have CPR and First Aid certification or required to obtain within the first year of employment.
3.
Physical exam and background checks are required for this position.
How Much: This position pays $19.96/hr.
Why You’ll Love Working with Us: A meaningful mission that drives real change in the lives of children and families A collaborative, inclusive team that values your growth and well-being Robust benefits that support your total wellbeing, including: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with multiple plan options to fit your needs Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions up to $800 annually Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care expenses 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 4% company match and immediate vesting Company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability and Basic Life Insurance Up to $500 per year in Professional Development Reimbursements Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling and mental wellness support Wellness Programs, including virtual fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes Pet Insurance, Legal Assistance, ID Theft Protection, and Employee Discount Perks If you’re ready to take on a challenge that matters and lead growth in a company where purpose and values drive every decision, apply now to join our team.
Together, we’ll help every child reach their fullest potential!
Why Acelero Learning or Shine Early Learning? - Ability to make an impact in the lives of the children, families, and partners we serve - Career growth and professional development opportunities - Supportive working environment - Average of 5 weeks of paid time off during 1st year of employment - Comprehensive benefits, including 401K matching and 100% vesting program We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and healthy work place.
Acelero Learning's mission is to bring a relentless focus on positive family and child outcomes to close the achievement gap and build a better future for children, families, and communities served by the Head Start program.
Our company values guide us as we work towards our mission: Embracing Diversity, Open Communication, Teamwork and Community, Data-Informed Learning, and Follow-Through.
At Acelero Learning, we believe that all children can achieve and succeed, and we work to empower families to advocate for their children and themselves.
Market context
Teaching assistant roles in New Jersey
Teaching assistant roles in New Jersey are often in steady demand in schools and early childhood settings, especially for candidates who can support classroom routines and child care needs. These positions can be competitive because employers look for empathy, reliability, and the ability to work independently, along with physical readiness to assist children safely. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page to save research time, and confirm you can meet the lifting requirement before applying.
