Job Description

Early Childhood Teaching AssistantCatherine Cook School seeks a vibrant and innovative Early Childhood Teaching Assistant. Early Childhood is PS (3-year-olds), JK (4-year-olds), SK (5-year-olds). This position is vital to building warm, respectful, and supportive relationships with students and cultivating a safe and stimulating learning environment. Teacher Assistants help create the foundation for a smoothly functioning classroom team by communicating openly and honestly with the lead teacher about roles, duties, and classroom routines.The ideal candidate is a collaborative and proactive educator who deeply understands the nuances of early childhood development. They should embody:The ability to work seamlessly with a Lead Teacher while also possessing the confidence to lead the classroom independently when the Lead is away, including managing a substitute teacher's role and interactions.The skill to implement the Responsive Classroom approach, SEL development, and model ROARS (respect, ownership, appreciation, responsibility, and safety) values, using a respectful, kind tone that encourages students to take risks in a safe environment.A proactive'see a need, fill a need' mindset, whether that means prepping a last-minute art material or stepping in to comfort a student during a transitionA foundational understanding of Emergent Curriculum and Inquiry-Based Learning, with a genuine desire to learn more and share those insights with the team.A foundational understanding of child development, learning through play, and the whole child approach to learning.An eye for detail and the ability to capture students' 'aha!' moments through documentation to help inform the emergent curriculum.A high level of comfort supporting students through emotions, navigating friendship dynamics, and teaching concepts like the "size of the problem" to foster independence.The ability to see each child’s unique strengths and ensure every student feels a deep sense of belonging within the classroom community.A whole-school mindset—willing to engage with parents, participate in conferences, and act as a member of our diverse community to support student retention and family attraction.Qualifications & Requirements:Experience in Early Childhood (ages 3-6) required.Strong interest in furthering a career in education.Proven teaching and organization skills; ability to manage classroom dynamics effectively.Strong communication skills.Willingness to learn and grow professionally.Commitment: Ability to work the entire school year, including one required evening for Curriculum Night and optional community events.Schedule: Ability to fulfill the following weekly shift rotations:7:00 AM – 3:00 PM (1-2 days per week)7:30 AM – 3:30 PM (2-3 days per week)7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Wednesdays)Opportunities for after-school enrichmentsWhat is the salary range for this position?In compliance with IL’s Pay Transparency Act, the salary for this position is $33,000 for candidates with a Bachelor's degree or $35,000 with a Master's degree.Catherine Cook School is an equal-opportunity employer. We recognize that skills and insights are developed through a variety of professional and lived experiences. We seek to be more representative of the communities in which we live and who we teach. We are intentionally seeking candidates who can demonstrate the core qualifications of this role through a combination of both non-traditional and traditional personal and professional experiences.Catherine Cook offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and financial security of our employees. Our benefits for full-time eligible employees include:Medical, dental, and vision coverage403(b) plan100% of the premium covered for Basic Life insurance, STD, LTD, AD&DHSA, FSA, Dependent Care availableProfessional Development opportunitiesGenerous paid time offPet InsuranceIdentity Theft Protection

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