Early Learning Assistant Teacher

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to employment@westsideschool.org.

Westside School is seeking a joyous part-time individual to join our Early Learning Team in the position of Assistant Teacher. The Assistant teacher will work with the Early Learning Team supporting teachers and students in a preschool or pre-kindergarten classroom part-time, as well as lead a cohort of Early Learning students in our aftercare program, Stay and Play. The Assistant Teacher will bridge the transition from the school day to aftercare, creating continuity for students enrolled in our Stay and Play program.  The role of the Assistant Teacher is to supervise children, coordinate activities, and work in conjunction with other staff and the Early Learning Division Head. This position may include additional school duties and has the potential to be full-day during the summer (mid-June to mid-August).

Westside’s emergent Early Learning curriculum is play-based, focused on experiential learning, and designed to foster the social-emotional foundations for academic learning. Our Early Learning Assistant Teacher will promote a joyful and safe school environment where play is learning and supports the creation of a community of learners in the classroom who respect and care for one another.  We are seeking a candidate who is able to support the school’s focus on diversity and inclusion and who demonstrates an understanding and appreciation of intercultural fluency and uphold the mission, vision, and values of Westside School.

Compensation and Benefits: This is a part-time position for the 2025-2026 academic school year. The compensation range for this position is $25-$27 per hour and is based on the experience level, and credentials of the candidate.

Reports to: Early Learning Division Head

Responsibilities:

• Work in-person from 12:00-5:00pm (hours may vary slightly)
• During the school day, assist Lead Teacher and Instructional Assistants with classroom management and be committed to oversee the safety and well-being of students in the classroom as well as on the playground during the school day
• Co-teach Stay and Play program with Early Learning aftercare staff
• Assist in the preparation of the indoor and outdoor learning environments (ex: preparing materials and supplies, cleaning up, properly storing materials in collaboration with the children)
• Assist in Facilitating play-based, child-centered after-school learning experiences for Early Learning Students.
• Assist in planning and leading developmentally appropriate activities for 3-5 year olds
• Assist children with transitions
• Establish strong daily routines and rhythms for children
• Supports classroom expectations that create a safe and comfortable environment for all students
• Value and incorporate diverse perspectives in daily student interactions and within the curriculum
• Maintain positive relationships with families
• Prepare and serve snack
• Perform other duties as assigned

Successful candidates will have the following personal and professional qualifications:

• High School diploma required
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Experience working with preschool age children
• Passionate, knowledgeable, and creative
• Team player and committed to making learning joyful
• A willingness to learn about, reflect upon, and support a dynamic learning environment
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of the children program
• Enthusiasm for working collaboratively with colleagues, accept feedback, and conduct oneself in a professional manner
• Strong communication skills and interpersonal skills
  able to effectively communicate with parents
• WA State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) for Child Care Center: Early Childhood Assistant Teacher Qualifications  Required*
  • Westside will cover the cost of all requirements
    *Candidates who do not have the required degree/certificate will be considered with a commitment to complete them within a specified length of time from start of employment.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Skill in communicating effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to use sound judgement and work independently.
• Ability to have consistent, prompt and punctual attendance.
• Ability to listen and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences

Start Date: Dependent on clearance of Portable Background Check

Daily Hours: 12:00-5:00 (hours may vary slightly)

12:00-2:45 Classroom support: Lunch Breaks, Rest, Recess, Snack, and Small Group Coverage

2:45-5:00 Assistant with Stay and Play Program

5:00-5:15 Clean Up and prepare for following day

Westside School’s Diversity Statement:
Westside School is committed to promoting inclusiveness, diversity, and cultural competence in its education, employment practices, school community, and governance. It views inclusiveness as a fundamental value, diversity as a key element, and cultural competence as a vital skill necessary to prepare students to participate in and contribute to a global society. Westside uses the term diversity broadly to encompass differences in the attributes of individuals, families, and communities.

​Westside School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.