Position Title: UPK Teaching Assistant
Performance Profile: Front Line
Department: Early Childhood
Work Location: Varies - Albany City School District
Reports to: UPK Director
Salary Range: $16/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 2025 - June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with the City School District of Albany (CSDA).
Organizational Values
At the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area (BGCCA), you'll find more than just a job. You'll be part of our mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Our team collaborates to ensure that youth in the Capital Area have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in today's fast-paced environment.
Overview of Your Role
The primary function of the UPK Teaching Assistant will be to play a vital role in supporting the Pre-Kindergarten Teacher in planning, developing, and instructing students 3-4 years of age. This role will follow the approved City School District of Albany (CSDA) curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives to create a nurturing and stimulating academic and social-emotional achievement environment. This role will work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher and be 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. Requirements:CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
Education and Experience:
Preferred - Associate's Degree in Early Childhood EducationPrior experience working with young children in an educational setting is desirableExperience working in an Early Childhood settingRequired Certifications:
Teaching Assistant Certification, OR currently enrolled in a certification programMandated Reporter CertificationPreferred CPR and First Aid TrainingESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Required Skills/Abilities:
Excellent verbal and written communication skillsExcellent interpersonal and customer service skillsStrong organizational skills and attention to detailStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAbility to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriateAbility to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environmentProficient with Google Office Suite or related softwareMust 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 dayAbility to lift and move up to 25 poundsFine motor coordination for computer workRegular verbal communication with children, staff, and parentsVisual acuity to monitor children's activities and safetyReasonable 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.
Compensation details: 16-17 Hourly Wage
PI750a978f0d91-9137
Read LessPosition Title: UPK Lead Teacher
Performance Profile: Front Line
Department: Universal Prekindergarten
Work Location: Varies- Albany City School District
Reports to: UPK Director
Salary Range: Starting from $18.75/hour
Hours & Schedule: Monday - Friday, 40 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 2025 - June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with the City School District of Albany (CSDA).
Organizational Values
At the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area (BGCCA), you'll find more than just a job. You'll be part of our mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Our team collaborates to ensure that youth in the Capital Area have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in today's fast-paced environment.
Overview of Your Role
The primary function of the UPK Lead Teacher will be to play a vital role in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years old in accordance with the approved CSDA curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives. Your focus will be on creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment that fosters academic and social-emotional achievement in conjunction with the second-step curriculum. The classroom configuration consists of 18 students, one teacher, and one teacher's assistant.
Key Job Responsibilities:
The following non-exhaustive list of job duties required for this position:
Leadership & Supervision
Collaborate effectively with the Teaching Assistant to implement planned lessons, ensuring a safe and positive classroom environment.Provide clear guidance and direction to the Teaching Assistant regarding daily tasks and responsibilities.Conduct regular evaluations of the Teaching Assistant's performance and provide constructive feedback.Offer mentorship and coaching to support the professional growth of the Teaching Assistant.Foster a collaborative and supportive team dynamic within the classroom.Planning
Develop comprehensive and engaging weekly lesson plans that align with the approved curriculum and meet individual student needs.Incorporate a variety of teaching methods and materials to accommodate different learning styles.Design age-appropriate activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.Collaborate with the Teaching Assistant to prepare and organize all necessary materials for daily activities.Utilize curriculum resources, such as Learning Without Tears and 2nd Step, to provide a well-rounded educational experience.Adapt lesson plans as needed based on ongoing assessment of student progress and interests.Education Delivery
Implement innovative and hands-on classroom activities that align with predetermined units of study.Create a stimulating learning environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving.Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of all students, including those with special needs or advanced abilitiesFacilitate both small group and whole class learning experiencesIntegrate technology appropriately to enhance learning experiences.Provide opportunities for student-led activities and exploration.Assessment and Reporting
Conduct ongoing assessments of student progress using various methods (e.g., observations, portfolios, developmental checklists)Provide timely and accurate progress reports, attendance records, and other required documentation.Complete progress monitoring reports, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.Communicate regularly with parents/guardians about student progress, concerns, and achievements.Participate in parent-teacher conferences and other family engagement activities.Use assessment data to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.Health & Safety
Adhere to and enforce all health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.Implement proper sanitation and disinfection procedures in the classroom.Monitor the health and wellness of students, promptly reporting any concerns to parents/guardians and administrators.Maintain a safe and secure classroom environment, addressing potential hazards promptly. Requirements:CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
Education and Experience:
Required - Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field from a regionally accredited college or universityMinimum one (1) year of professional experience working with youth between 3-5 years of ageGroup leadership skills, including an understanding of group dynamicsKnowledge of principles related to the development of youth between 3-5 years of ageRequired Certifications:
Valid NYS Teaching Certificate in Early Childhood Education B-2nd OR Masters equivalents such as Literacy B-2nd or Curriculum Development, OR Currently enrolled in a certification programMandated Reporter CertificationCPR and First Aid TrainingESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Required Skills/Abilities:
Excellent verbal and written communication skillsExcellent interpersonal and customer service skillsStrong organizational skills and attention to detailStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAbility to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriateAbility to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environmentStrong Computer Skills (Microsoft Office, Google Drive & Docs, Email)Must pass a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting, child abuse clearance, and sex offender registry check, as required by BGCCAWork 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 8 hours per dayAbility to lift and move up to 25 poundsFine motor coordination for computer workRegular verbal communication with children, staff, and parentsVisual acuity to monitor children's activities and safetyReasonable 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.
Compensation details: 18.75-22.75 Hourly Wage
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