UPK Teaching Assistant

Position Title:   UPK Teaching Assistant 

Performance Profile:  Front Line

Department:  Universal Prekindergarten

Work Location:  Varies, Cohoes City School District

Reports to:  UPK Director

Salary Range:  From $16.00/hour 

Hours & Schedule: Monday - Friday, 37.5 hours/week 

Classification:   Full-Time, Non-Exempt 

Full-Time Benefits:  Paid school holidays and breaks, sick leave, 401(k) w/match, health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, New York Paid Family Leave benefits, retirement benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and eligibility for additional third-party discounts.

Note: This is a 10-month position (August June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with the Cohoes City School District (CCSD).

Overview:

Universal Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistants play a vital role in supporting Lead Teachers in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years. This role follows the approved curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives of the respective school district to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for academic and social-emotional achievement. Working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, Teaching Assistants are responsible for assisting with classroom management and program delivery.

Key Job Responsibilities: 

The following non-exhaustive list of  job duties required for this position:

Planning & Leadership:

• Assist in creating and submitting weekly lesson plans based on approved curriculum and individual student needs.
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to ensure all necessary materials and resources are prepared for classroom activities.
• Help develop and implement creative, hands-on classroom activities aligned with predetermined units of study and student needs.
• Utilize the Learning Without Tears curriculum in conjunction with the 2nd-Step program to facilitate both academic and social-emotional development.
• Actively participate in Professional Development opportunities offered by the school district and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area.

Program Delivery:

• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to implement planned lessons and activities effectively.
• Assist in delivering age-appropriate instruction in various subject areas, including early literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies.
• Support small group activities and provide individualized attention to students as needed.
• Complete required documentation accurately and timely, including progress reports, attendance records, progress monitoring forms, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.
• Provide guidance and support to ensure effective classroom management and a positive learning environment.
• Assist in organizing and maintaining an orderly, attractive, and stimulating classroom environment.

Health & Safety:

• Adhere to and help enforce health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.
• Maintain a safe and secure learning environment for students by actively monitoring and addressing potential hazards.
• Assist in implementing proper hygiene practices and routines among students.
• Support the emotional well-being of students by fostering a nurturing and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
• Remain alert to signs of child abuse or neglect and report concerns through appropriate channels.
• Assist in managing emergency situations according to established procedures.

Student Support and Development:

• Observe and document student progress, behavior, and developmental milestones.
• Assist in identifying students who may need additional support or intervention.
• Help implement individualized education plans (IEPs) or behavior plans as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Encourage student independence and self-help skills appropriate for their age and developmental level.
• Promote positive social interactions among students and model appropriate behavior and communication.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

Education /Experience/Certification:

• Preferred - Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education
• Minimum 1-2 years experience working in an Early Childhood setting
• Teaching Assistant Certification or current enrollment in certification program
• Experience with early childhood development and education
• Mandated Reporter Certification
• Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid Training

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
• Proficient with Google Office Suite or related software
• Must pass a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting, child abuse clearance, and sex offender registry check, as required by BGCCA.

Work environment:

• Early childhood classroom environment with moderate noise levels from children's activities. Indoor school setting with standard classroom temperature control.

Travel required: 

• Minimal travel is required, with occasional attendance at off-site professional development or district meetings.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing/walking for up to 7 hours per day
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds
• Fine motor coordination for computer work
• Regular verbal communication with children, staff, and parents
• Visual acuity to monitor children's activities and safety

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Persons from diverse backgrounds including communities of color, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to apply.