Pre-K Teacher Assistant - Early Childhood Education & Development in Saint Petersburg, FL

Join the Team at Lutheran Services Florida: Making a Difference in the Lives of Children and Families

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is a leading provider of social services, envisioning a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant. We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Pre-K Teacher Assistant to join our team in Saint Petersburg, FL. As a Pre-K Teacher Assistant, you will play a vital role in shaping the educational and personal growth of young children, working collaboratively with our talented team of educators and professionals.

About the Role

We are looking for a highly skilled and enthusiastic Pre-K Teacher Assistant to support our early childhood education program. The successful candidate will be responsible for working as part of a teaching team to develop and implement activities that promote learning, socialization, and development in preschool children. This is a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families, while growing your career in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement approved curricula in the classroom, working closely with the teacher to guide and facilitate activities that promote learning and development.
• Assist in carrying out the goals, policies, and activities designed to implement educational objectives and performance standards.
• Develop strong relationships with families, promoting parent involvement in the program and communicating effectively about children's progress.
• Serve as a Bus Monitor on activities where the program transports children, ensuring their safety and engaging them in developmentally appropriate activities.
• Write weekly observations per assessment procedure, using parent conferences to discuss children's individual development and progress.
• Eat with and assist children in developing social and self-help skills, promoting sound nutritional practices.
• Guide children's acquisition of social skills, using active supervision techniques to maintain positive classroom behavior.
• Assist in providing and maintaining a safe and healthy, developmentally appropriate environment.
• Assist the teacher in ensuring that at least 80% of children are kindergarten ready.
• Assist in quality staff-child interactions, using active supervision techniques and maintaining positive classroom behavior.

Essential Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
• A National Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or Florida Child Care Professional Certificate (FCCPC) for Pre-school or Infant/Toddler Endorsement.
• Or Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education or related degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working in early childhood education.
• Knowledge of child development principles and practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with children, families, and staff.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer skills and ability to maintain accurate records.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At LSF, we are committed to supporting the growth and development of our staff. As a Pre-K Teacher Assistant, you will have opportunities to:

• Participate in ongoing training and professional development.
• Explore areas of interest within the organization.
• Take advantage of tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment programs.

Work Environment and Company Culture

LSF is a dynamic and supportive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our staff is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families, and we offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• Teladoc (24/7 online access to doctors).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employer-paid life insurance (1X salary).
• 13 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday.
• Generous PTO policy (starting at 16 working days a year).
• 403(b) Retirement plan with 3% discretionary employer match OR 3% student loan repayment reimbursement.

Why Work for LSF?

LSF offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families, while growing your career in a dynamic and supportive environment. Our staff is passionate about our mission, and we offer:

• 60 programs across the state of Florida serving a wide range of populations in need.
• Mission-driven staff members become part of the LSF community while transforming the lives of those in need.
• Amazing benefits package.

How to Apply

If you are a compassionate and dedicated professional with a passion for early childhood education, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application today, and join our team in making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Don't miss this chance to grow your career and make a positive impact on the lives of others. Apply now!