Assistant Educator - Afternoon Support

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

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing Professional Development & 1.0

401(k) Plan

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays

Employee Childcare Discount

Job summary

Yellow Brick Road in West Des Moines, IA seeks an Assistant Educator to support the Lead Educator in a nurturing, inclusive classroom where children can thrive. You will participate in play-based activities, help reinforce routines, and contribute to a positive learning environment.

Responsibilities include supervising students, documenting progress, communicating with families, and engaging in ongoing professional development while upholding safety and licensing standards.

Qualifications

• Must meet 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.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Educator in implementing age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Supervise and engage with students to ensure safety and participation.
• Maintain classroom cleanliness and safety, support routine schedules.
• Communicate with families during drop-off/pick-up and via app.
• Collaborate with colleagues for professional development and best practices.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Education

DHS Assistant Teacher qualification requirements

CPR/First Aid certification within 30 days

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