Educational Assistant | Preschool

Job Title: Educational Assistant

Reports To: Building Principal

Position Summary

The Educational Assistant supports classroom instruction by assisting teachers with daily activities, reinforcing student learning, and helping maintain a positive and structured learning environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support small group and individual instruction under the direction of the teacher.
• Assist in maintaining classroom discipline and reinforcing behavioral expectations.
• Prepare instructional materials and assist with classroom setup for lessons and specialized units.
• Maintain attendance records and perform clerical tasks as directed.
• Create and update bulletin boards and classroom displays.
• Operate standard school equipment (e.g., copier, laminator, audiovisual tools).
• Escort students to and from classrooms or other school areas as needed.
• Supervise students in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and other assigned areas.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the teacher, principal, or administration.

Additional Responsibilities

• Communicate accurate and current information to support student learning.
• Demonstrate effective time management and organizational skills.
• Collaborate professionally with administrators, staff, parents, and students.
• Maintain student engagement in appropriate learning activities.
• Apply conflict resolution strategies when addressing student behavior.
• Use instructional strategies and materials aligned with learning objectives.
• Safeguard school property, equipment, and materials.
• Fulfill assigned duties such as hall, bus, or lunch supervision.
• Report suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with policy.
• Supervise students during field trips and extracurricular activities.
• Serve as a positive role model within the school community.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Monitor and supervise students in assigned settings under the direction of certified staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must have an associates degree in early childhood education OR be willing to enroll and take 6 credit hours per semester.
• Valid New Mexico Educational Assistant license required.
• Ability to successfully complete employment verification requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, and climb stairs.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to move light furniture and classroom materials.

Safety and Compliance

• Completion of required training, including:
• Child Abuse/Substance Abuse Awareness
• Bloodborne Pathogens

Equipment and Materials

• Ability to operate or learn to operate classroom and multimedia equipment, including current instructional technology.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in indoor and outdoor school settings with varying noise levels, temperatures, and air quality.
• Frequent interruptions and the need for flexibility are expected.
• Requires the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Occasional evening or after-hours responsibilities may be required.

Terms of Employment

• Salary and work schedule are determined by the Board.