Preschool Teaching Assistant

Kamehameha Schools; Hawaii; On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Kamehameha Schools in Hawaii is seeking a Teaching Assistant for the East Hawaii preschool. The role supports a Hawaiian Culture-Based Education program that also emphasizes Christian values and student safety.

You will assist with instructional activities, supervision, program management, and family engagement. There is a 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday, with responsibilities including substitute teaching when needed.

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree in ECE or equivalent with credentials as listed.
• Minimum 6 months of related work experience in early childhood.
• Current Food Handler’s Certification and Pediatric CPR certification.
• Ability to implement positive behavior management strategies.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Support – assist with daily classroom instruction and material prep.
• Supervision – monitor student safety and behavior during breaks and activities.
• Program Support – manage supplies, sanitation, and attendance records.
• Family Engagement – communicate progress and participate in home visits.
• Substitute Teaching – lead lessons in teacher’s absence and implement plans.

Skills

Classroom technology

Relationship building

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Patience

Positive behavior mgmt

Education

Bachelor's in ECE

Associate's in ECE

CDA Certification

60 college credits + 16 ECE

Tools

Classroom technology

Educational tools

Job description

Job Summary

The Teaching Assistant plays an integral role within the Preschool instructional team, supporting the teacher in delivering a Hawaiian Culture-Based Education program that fosters Christian values. The position supports student learning, maintains safety and security, assists with lesson planning, and serves as the teacher in the teacher’s absence. It is a full‑time, Monday‑through‑Friday, 40‑hour week at the East Hawaii region.

Essential Responsibilities

• Instructional Support – Assists with daily classroom instruction; prepares materials; facilitates group activities; documents student progress.
• Supervision – Supervises student behavior; ensures safety during breaks and activities; manages classroom in the teacher’s absence.
• Program Support – Maintains classroom organization; plans snack menus; manages supplies; ensures sanitation and safety; records attendance.
• Family Engagement – Builds relationships with families; communicates progress; participates in home visits; provides feedback on behavior and learning.
• Substitute Teaching – Manages classroom in teacher’s absence; delivers lesson plans; implements assessment plans; provides interventions.

Position Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Equivalent combination of education and experience may substitute for the listed requirements.
• Associate’s Degree in ECE, Associate’s Degree with 9 ECE credits, CDA Certification, or 2 years of college (60 credits) with a 16‑credit Early Childhood certificate.
• Minimum of 6 months of related work experience.
• Current Community First Aid and Pediatric CPR Certification.
• Current Department of Health Food Handler’s Certification.
• Ability to implement positive behavior management strategies.
• Patience and understanding of developmental needs of young children.
• Experience supervising students independently or under a teacher’s direction.
• Proficiency in classroom technology and educational tools.
• Ability building strong relationships with students and families.
• Team player with effective collaboration skills.
• Adaptability to diverse student needs and individualized support strategies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education (ECE).
• 2 years of classroom experience, ideally with preschool or early childhood students.
• Experience planning and implementing learning activities in an instructional role.
• Familiarity with culturally relevant curricula, especially Hawaiian culture‑based education.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Tasks include frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, and handling up to 30 pounds. Participation in twisting, squatting, kneeling, climbing, reaching, and fine manipulation tasks is required.

Working Conditions

The role requires work indoors and outdoors at the preschool multiple times throughout the day and may involve traveling to off‑site locations and neighboring islands. Work is typically Monday through Friday during normal business hours.

Disability Accommodation Statement

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please contact us at [e-mail] or 808‑534‑8040 if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodations include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.