Teaching Assistant.

Job Description

Job Summary : University School is seeking a compassionate, attentive, and energetic Teaching Assistant to support instruction and daily routines in our Early Childhood, Early Primary, and Kindergarten classrooms. The ideal candidate will work closely with teachers to create a nurturing and engaging environment that promotes exploration, emotional growth, and foundational academic skills. This position requires a love of young children, strong collaboration skills, and a willingness to take initiative in supporting students and classroom activities.

Essential Functions (Responsibilities) :

• Assists teachers with planning and delivering developmentally appropriate activities and lessons.
• Supports classroom management and student engagement throughout the day.
• Provides individualized support to students, including help with tasks, transitions, and self-regulation.
• Prepares and organizes materials and learning spaces to support daily instruction.
• Supervises students during playtime, lunchtime, rest periods, and outdoor activities.
• Fosters a classroom culture that values curiosity, creativity, resilience, cooperation and respect.
• Communicates regularly and effectively with children, parents, and staff.
• Collaborates with colleagues in early education programs and primary grades to support student development.
• Participates in departmental meetings, professional development, and school-wide initiatives and events.
• Creates a safe, inclusive, and welcoming school environment for all.
• Other duties as assigned or requested by Director or Assistant Director.

Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required

Knowledge / Skill / Ability

Special Job Dimensions : Work requires working with highly sensitive or confidential information.Note : The essential job functions and associated qualifications contained in this document describe the general nature and level of the work performed. They are not intended to represent an exhaustive listing or be inclusive of all aspects of the job. The tasks and procedures involved in the performance of the essential job functions may vary from day-to-day. Major changes in areas of responsibility may occur, as directed by management, and will require revision of this job description. Preferred Qualifications Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education Physical Demands

Standing / Walking : Frequent movement around the classroom.

Lifting / Carrying : Up to 50 pounds.

Bending / Kneeling : Regularly interacting at children’s level.

Reaching / Stretching : Accessing materials and assisting children.

Manual Dexterity : Handling small objects and tools.

Vocal Communication : Speaking clearly in noisy environments.

Visual / Auditory Attention : Monitoring children’s safety and behavior.