ESS Instructional assistant - TK

Iu17; Concord (CA); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Mount Diablo Unified School District in Concord, CA seeks an ESS Instructional assistant for Transitional Kindergarten. The role supports teachers with 3–5 year olds, helps implement PTKLF-aligned activities, and supervises students during meals and recess.

The position requires a high school diploma, readiness to assist with learning stations, and strong teamwork with staff. The district emphasizes safety, inclusivity, and professional growth.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; early childhood courses preferred.
• Experience with young children in educational settings is preferred.
• Knowledge of preschool and early elementary subjects, safety, and classroom routines.
• Able to follow instructions, work with others, and maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Support students in developing motor skills through structured activities.
• Monitor behavior and promote positive interactions in the classroom.
• Prepare and organize instructional materials, stations, and displays.
• Perform clerical duties such as filing and duplicating materials.
• Operate standard classroom and office equipment (laminators, copiers, computers, tablets).
• Assist with age-appropriate use of classroom technology and digital tools.
• Communicate with teachers and staff to ensure a safe, inclusive environment.

Skills

Assist instruction

Student progress monitoring

Classroom materials

Communication with staff

Technology in classroom

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Laminators

Copiers

Computers

Tablets

Job description

Concord, CA - Mount Diablo Unified School District, Contra Costa County $21.06 / Hour

Job Description

ESS Instructional assistant - TK

PURPOSE

Under the supervision of a certificated TK teacher and site administrator, the Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Instructional Assistant supports the implementation of a developmentally appropriate curriculum for 3, 4, and 5-year-old students. This role involves assisting in classroom instruction, supervising students, and performing tasks to enhance the learning environment.

SUPERVISION

Reports to: Site Administrator

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Supports students in developing fine and gross motor skills through structured activities.
• Monitors and guides student behavior, promoting positive interactions and adherence to classroom norms.
• Prepares and organizes instructional materials, learning stations, and classroom displays.
• Performs clerical duties such as maintaining records, filing, and duplicating materials.
• Participates in staff meetings and professional development sessions as needed.
• Operates standard office equipment and applicable software systems (Google Workspace, etc.).
• Ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the classroom.
• Assist students with age-appropriate use of classroom technology and digital learning tools.
• Supports the teacher in supervising and implementing instructional activities that align with the California Preschool Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations (PTKLF).
• Facilitates engaging activities that enhance early math, science, and language skills, encouraging critical thinking with questions aligned to the lesson plan.
• Helps coordinate and implement organized play during lunchtime and recess, suitable for the students' age and development.
• Monitors and reports student progress regarding academic performance and behavior.
• Supports students with hygiene needs, including toileting, cleaning, and changing clothes, to maintain high standards of sanitation and comfort.
• Provides differentiated, student-centered tutoring for individuals and small groups, fostering physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and language development, under teacher supervision.
• Communicates with teachers, students, and faculty to ensure a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment.
• Supervises student meals, snacks, rest periods, and other assigned activities.

JOB REQUIREMENTS: MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required. College Courses in early childhood education are preferred.

Experience:

• Experience working with young children in educational settings is preferred.

Required Knowledge:

• Child development principles specific to preschool and early elementary-aged children (especially ages 3–5).
• Age-appropriate instructional strategies, learning activities, and play-based curriculum used in a TK classroom.
• Basic academic subjects, including beginning reading, early math concepts, and early science exploration.
• Safety and emergency procedures, including first aid and child supervision protocols.
• Techniques for managing behavior using positive reinforcement and conflict resolution strategies.
• School and classroom procedures, routines, and expectations.
• Cultural sensitivity and inclusive practices that support diverse learners and families.

Required Abilities:

• Relate warmly and effectively to young children and build trusting relationships with them.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate patience, empathy, and flexibility in a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable classroom environment.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, specialists, and other support staff as part of a cohesive team.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student records, behaviors, and family information.
• Supervise students in a variety of settings and remain attentive and proactive in ensuring safety.

Required Skills:

• Assisting with the implementation of teacher-led activities and adapting support based on student needs.
• Using effective communication strategies with students and staff.
• Organizing classroom materials and managing multiple tasks.
• Observing and documenting student progress, participation, and behavior.
• Operating standard classroom and office equipment, such as laminators, copiers, computers, and tablets.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work Environment:

• Work is performed in a classroom setting with frequent interaction with young children.
• Regular outdoor supervision of Transitional Kindergarten students (e.g., playground and field trips) is expected.

Physical Demands:

• Stand and walk for extended periods (up to 6–8 hours with breaks).
• Bend, kneel, squat, and sit on the floor to interact with students at their level.
• Reach overhead and stoop repeatedly in a classroom setting.
• Use hands and arms to operate learning tools and classroom equipment.
• Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds on a regular basis (e.g., moving classroom supplies, lifting students as necessary).
• Move quickly and safely in emergency situations, including assisting students with evacuation procedures.
• Engage in physical play activities with children, including running, jumping, and climbing, during recess and gross motor time.

LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• DOJ/FBI fingerprint clearance
• TB test clearance

Classification: Classified

Salary Range: Classified Salary Schedule, Range 388

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit: CSEA

Date Adopted: February 11, 2026

INDWAB