Instructional Assistant, Early Childhood (Head Start)

Young World Physical Education; McAllen (TX); On-site; USD 19,286 - 26,642; Full time

Job summary

McAllen Independent School District is seeking an Instructional Assistant, Early Childhood (Head Start) at Thigpen-Zavala Elementary School in McAllen, TX. The role supports the teacher with instruction and classroom management to promote student success.

Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, 48 college hours or an associate degree, and preferred paraprofessional certification. Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency and basic computer skills are valued, with prior child care

Qualifications

• Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent; Associate degree or 48 college hours; Paraprofessional Certification preferred (required upon employment).
• Special Knowledge/Skills: Bilingual English/Spanish, teamwork, strong interpersonal skills, ability to follow written and oral instructions in English and Spanish; basic computer skills preferred.
• Experience: Experience working with children is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Reinforce instruction with large and small groups of students.
• Assist teacher in maintaining a safe, attractive classroom conducive to learning.
• Supervise students throughout the workday.
• Assist the teacher with clerical duties and record keeping.

Skills

Bilingual EN/ES

Interpersonal skills

First Aid

Computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or 48 college hours

Paraprofessional Certification (required upon employment)

Job description

Instructional Assistant, Early Childhood (Head Start)

McAllen Independent School District Thigpen-Zavala Elementary School - McAllen, Texas

Job Details:

Job ID: 5839358

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: Jul 17, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Assist the teacher in the preparation, instruction and management of activities which will enhance student success.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent, required; Associate degree or a minimum of 48 college hours, required; Paraprofessional Certification, preferred (required upon employment)
• Special Knowledge/Skills: Ability to work cooperatively with students and adults; strong interpersonal skills; ability to speak, read, write and follow written and oral instructions in English and Spanish; First Aid and CPR Training, preferred; basic computer skills, preferred
• Experience: Experience working with children, preferred

Days: 187

Hourly Pay Range: Minimum: $14.00; Maximum: $19.34

Note: Starting pay for a new hire in a pay range plan will be determined individually based on each person's job-related experience and salaries paid to peer employees in the same position with similar experience.

Major Responsibilities and Duties/Essential Functions

• Reinforce instruction with large and small groups of students.
• Assist teacher in maintaining a safe, attractive classroom environment that is conducive to learning.
• Assist in supervising students throughout the workday.
• Assist the teacher with clerical duties and record keeping.
• Assist with the preparation of instructional materials.
• Operate equipment to augment ongoing instruction by the teacher.
• Follow McAllen ID customer service standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor (primary evaluator).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None

EQUIPMENT USED: Computer, copiers, multimedia equipment and other classroom/office machines

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Various body movements to facilitate instruction (i.e. dancing, running, bending, skipping, etc.); occasional lifting and/or moving up to 45 pounds and over; ability to provide for sanitation needs and student hygiene as required; assist in the restraining of students in crisis situations.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $14 to $19.34 Per Hour

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Marisela Chapa , Principal
• Thigpen-Zavala Elementary School
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]