Teacher Assistant

Desert Preschool Academy; Indio (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Desert Preschool Academy in Indio, CA, is seeking a Teacher Assistant to support curriculum implementation for preschool children under supervision. You will reinforce routines, promote safety, and maintain documentation, while adhering to California Title 5/22, CACFP requirements, and licensing standards.

Join our team to support inclusive practices, collaborate with staff, and participate in ongoing professional development to ensure a safe, engaging learning environment.

Qualifications

• Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience with young children preferred.
• Infant Program: completion of at least 6 ECE/CD units in Infant/Toddler Development.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, developmentally appropriate learning environment.
• Support curriculum implementation with children individually and in small groups.
• Provide active supervision and ensure safety at all times.
• Assist with daily classroom routines (transitions, meals, rest, outdoor play).
• Maintain professional communication with Lead Teacher and staff.
• Prepare materials and assist with housekeeping and organization as needed.
• Support inclusive practices for diverse abilities and dual language learners.

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

6 CDE/ECE units from accredited college or university

Infant Program: 6 ECE/CD units in Infant/Toddler Development

Job description

DEFINITION:

Under the direct supervision of the Teacher, the Teacher Assistant is responsible for supporting the implementation of curriculum by working with children individually and in small groups to reinforce learning. The Teacher Assistant promotes appropriate behavior by enforcing classroom and school rules, supports classroom routines, and provides active supervision of children at all times.This position is responsible for ensuring adherence to Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, overseen by the California Department of Education; Title 22 Community Care Licensing regulations, administered by the California Department of Social Services; and all operational, nutritional, and documentation requirements of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). The role also ensures compliance with all relevant local, state, and county fire, building, health, and safety codes required for licensed childcare facilities in Riverside County. In addition, this position is responsible for maintaining strict adherence to all Funding Terms and Conditions (FT&C) associated with state and county contracts, grant agreements, and public or private funding sources.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The responsibilities of the Teacher Assistant will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Maintain a safe, clean, and developmentally appropriate learning environment in accordance with Title 22 regulations and agency policies.
• Maintain supportive and respectful interactions with children to foster positive social-emotional development and secure attachments.
• Maintain active supervision and visual awareness of all children at all times, ensuring accurate child counts and immediate response to safety concerns.
• Maintain engagement in daily classroom routines, including transitions, toileting/diapering, meals, rest time, and outdoor play, while supporting children’s independence and self-help skills.
• Maintain clear, professional communication and collaboration with the Lead Teacher and site staff to ensure consistency in implementing lesson plans and child guidance strategies.
• Maintain accurate and confidential documentation as directed, including child observations, attendance, incident reports, and developmental progress notes.
• Maintain a flexible and responsive approach to classroom needs, including assisting in preparing materials, cleaning, organizing, and resetting the environment.
• Maintain a commitment to inclusive practices by supporting the needs of children with diverse abilities, dual language learners, and those with exceptional needs.
• Maintain a positive rapport with families and contribute to a welcoming, culturally responsive classroom environment that supports family engagement.
• Maintain active participation in ongoing professional development, team meetings, coaching sessions, and required training hours in accordance with Title 5/22 and agency guidelines.
• Maintain adherence to all health, hygiene, and safety protocols, including universal precautions, handwashing, and cleaning procedures.
• Maintain a growth mindset and willingness to accept feedback and guidance from supervisors, mentors, and leadership.
• Maintain flexibility in daily duties and classroom support; perform other duties as assigned to meet the needs of the program and ensure a safe, positive learning environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience working with young children in an early childhood education setting is preferred.
• Must have at least (6) CDE/ECE units from accredited college or university
• Infant Program (if applicable):
  • Completion of at least 6 ECE/CD units in Infant/Toddler Development

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• TB Clearance (every four years)/Physical (once upon hire)
• Fingerprinting Clearance by FBI, DOJ, Child Abuse Index and these criminal records are required for employment.
• CPR and First Aid (renewed every 2 years)
• Vaccines (TDAP every 10 years and MMR)
• Flu Shot annually or waiver.
• Mandated Reporter Training (AB1207 every two years)
• Valid Driver’s License and proof of active insurance
• Travel may be necessary up to 25%
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.