Assistant Educator

Yellow Brick Road; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PD Opportunities

401(k)

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

Childcare Discount

Job summary

Yellow Brick Road in Des Moines is seeking an Assistant Educator to support the Lead Educator in creating a nurturing, inclusive learning environment. You will help implement play-based activities, support social and emotional development, and reinforce daily routines to help children thrive.

You will supervise students, monitor progress, assist with family communication, and participate in professional development while upholding our safety standards and licensing requirements.

Qualifications

• Must meet the Department of Human Services (DHS) Assistant Teacher qualification requirements.
• Knowledge of early childhood development principles and best practices.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Must be able to perform physical tasks (standing, lifting up to 40 lbs).
• Background checks and state licensing compliance required.
• CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain within 30 days.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Educator in implementing play-based, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Maintain a positive classroom culture that fosters belonging, safety, and curiosity.
• Supervise and engage with students to ensure safety and active participation.
• Monitor developmental progress and support documentation as directed.
• Perform daily cleaning and sanitizing of the classroom.
• Guide students in conflict resolution and developmentally appropriate problem-solving.
• Support adherence to classroom schedules and routines.
• Communicate with families during drop-off/pick-up and via the Parent Communication app.
• Collaborate with colleagues to share ideas and best practices.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal

Organizational

Education

DHS Assistant Teacher qualifications

Job description

At Yellow Brick Road, we’re on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you’re energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you’ll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.

The purpose of the Assistant Educator is to support the Lead Educator in providing a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where students can thrive and develop essential skills for lifelong success. Through collaboration, flexibility, and care, our Assistant Educator’s play a vital role in promoting social and emotional development, encouraging curiosity, and reinforcing daily routines. By embracing our core values, Assistant Educators help maintain a safe and stimulating space where each student is valued, respected, and supported on their learning journey.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist the Lead Educator in implementing play-based, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that support student’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development, aligned with early learning standards.
• Help maintain a positive classroom culture that fosters a sense of belonging, safety, and curiosity.

Child Supervision and Interaction:

• Supervise and engage with students to ensure their safety and active participation in daily activities.
• Help monitor student’s developmental progress and support documentation as directed by the Lead Educator.

Classroom Management Support:

• Perform daily cleaning and sanitizing of the classroom, including toys, surfaces, equipment, and other areas, to maintain a clean, sanitary, and safe environment for students.
• Help guide students in conflict resolution and problem-solving with developmentally appropriate techniques.
• Support adherence to classroom schedules and routines.

Family Communication:

• Communication positively and professionally with families during drop-off, pick-up, and as needed, under the guidance from the Lead Educator and Director.
• Provide daily communication through the company’s Parent Communication app with parents and families to provide updates on their child's daily progress, activities, and development.

Professional Development:

• Collaborate with colleagues and supervisors to share ideas, resources, and best practices, that fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.

What You’ll Need:

• Must meet the Department of Human Services (DHS) Assistant Teacher qualification requirements.
• Knowledge of early childhood development principles and best practices.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, which may include - standing or sitting for extended periods of time. Lifting and carrying young children and classroom materials - up to 40lbs. Bending, stooping, and kneeling to interact with children at their level. Ability to respond quickly to emergencies or situations requiring physical intervention.
• Willingness to undergo background checks and meet state licensing requirements for working in a childcare setting.
• Must possess a valid CPR/First Aid certification, or willing to obtain within 30 days of employment.

What We Offer:

• Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities
• 401(k) Plan
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Employee Childcare Discount

Yellow Brick Road offers medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid time off and holidays, childcare discounts, and an employee assistance program.

$14 - $16 USD