Early Childhood Assistant

Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools; Newark (DE); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Independence School seeks an Early Childhood Assistant to join a collaborative preschool program on our 90-acre campus near Newark. The role partners with the Lead Teacher to deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate activities for preschool-aged children and to support individualized student instruction.

We value strong communication, flexibility, and a commitment to creating an inclusive classroom.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• EC Interim (or higher) certification from the Office of Child Care Licensing is required.
• Experience with Early Childhood students preferred.
• Preferred coursework in early childhood or elementary education.
• Excellent time management and ability to switch between tasks and priorities.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Aptitude to learn new systems, software, and platforms; maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to a positive and supportive learning environment that promotes student engagement and success.
• Provide a welcoming and friendly classroom tone for all children, parents, and visitors.
• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing lesson plans and activities suitable for preschool-aged children.
• Provide individualized attention and support to students who may require extra assistance.
• Assist with classroom management and outdoor supervision, including behavior guidance.
• Support students in developing social skills, cooperation, and independence through group activities.
• Attend meetings and pursue professional development opportunities during the academic year.

Skills

Time management

Organizational skills

Planning skills

Discretion

Preschool experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

EC Interim certification

Early childhood education coursework

Job description

Independence was founded in 1978 by parents seeking a challenging education that would be strong in the academic areas, arts, foreign languages, and athletics. Today, the school occupies a 90-acre campus in the Pike Creek Valley (near Hockessin, Newark, and Wilmington, Cecil County, MD, and southeastern Chester County, PA), and features state of the art facilities and outdoor classrooms.

The Independence School, an independent day school welcoming children age 3 through 8th Grade, provides an exceptionally strong academic foundation and so much more. At Independence, students learn to think for themselves. They learn independence. Our school mission, beliefs, and core values guide us to ensure we offer students an unparalleled educational experience, opportunities for leadership and a welcoming community for the entire family.

Early Childhood Assistant

Direct Supervisor: Head of Early Childhood

FLSA: Exempt

Type: Full-Time Faculty Employee

The Early Childhood Assistant is a creative, passionate, and student-centered educator who is able to elicit deep, engaging, and active learning for all students. Collaborates with the Lead Teacher to expand opportunities for more individualized student instruction.

Professional Attributes

1. High energy and enthusiasm with the ability to learn quickly, make an immediate impact, and implement new initiatives
2. Flexibility and openness to creating a variety of assignments
3. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, displaying the ability to connect and build relationships with employees, students, and parents
4. Confidence in professional aptitude with the ability to effectively convey skills and knowledge
5. Positive team player with a strong desire to be an active, long-term participant in the growth of the School
6. Supports and aligns with the School's mission, values, and policies
7. Commitment to fostering and supporting a safe and healthy atmosphere and an inclusive community

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Contribute to the creation of a positive and supportive learning environment that promotes student engagement and success
2. Provide a welcoming and friendly classroom tone for all children, parents, and visitors
3. Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing lesson plans and educational activities suitable for preschool-aged children
4. Provide individualized attention and support to students who may require extra assistance
5. Assist with classroom management and outdoor supervision, including behavior guidance and conflict resolution among students
6. Support students in developing social skills, cooperation, and independence through group activities and interactions
7. Attend meetings, participate in school-wide events, and pursue professional development opportunities to stay up-to-date on evidence-based practices in early elementary education
8. Utilize the 90-acre campus as an extension of the classroom for hands-on exploration and learning opportunities
9. Perform other duties as assigned

Skills, Knowledge, and Qualifications

1. High school diploma or equivalent required
2. Experience working with Early Childhood students is preferred
3. EC Interim (or higher) certification from the Office of Child Care Licensing is required (assistance/information provided if not certified)
4. Preferred coursework in early childhood or elementary education
5. Excellent time management skills and ability to switch between tasks and prioritize work
6. Strong organizational and planning skills
7. Aptitude to learn new systems, software, and platforms
8. High level of confidentiality and discretion

The Early Childhood Assistant is a 10-month position and follows the academic calendar.

11/12/2025

The Independence School prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.