UPK Teaching Assistant - Floating Part-time; Albany

UPK Teaching Assistant - Floating Part-time (Albany)

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area (BGCCA) is hiring a UPK Teaching Assistant - Floating Part-time in Albany, NY. This role supports the Pre-Kindergarten Teacher and assists with planning, development, and instruction for students ages 3-4 in collaboration with the City School District of Albany (CSDA).

Overview

The primary function of the UPK Teaching Assistant is to support the Lead Teacher in planning, delivering, and supervising instruction aligned with CSDA curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives. The role includes classroom management, program delivery, and creating a nurturing, stimulating educational environment for early learners.

Position Details

• Position Title: UPK Teaching Assistant - Floating
• Performance Profile: Front Line
• Department: Universal Prekindergarten
• Work Location: Varies – Albany City School District
• Reports to: UPK Director
• Salary Range: $16/hour
• Hours & Schedule: Monday - Friday, 37.5 hours/week
• Classification: Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Benefits

• Sick leave, Supplemental health and dental insurance, New York Paid Family Leave benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and eligibility for additional third-party discounts.

Note:

This is a 10-month part-time position (August 2025 - June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with CSDA.

Organizational Values

BGCCA is committed to inspiring and enabling all young people to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. The team collaborates to help youth in the Capital Area succeed and thrive.

Key Job Responsibilities (non-exhaustive):

• Planning & Leadership
  • Assist in creating and submitting weekly lesson plans based on approved curriculum and individual student needs.
  • Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to prepare materials and resources for activities.
  • Develop and implement creative, hands-on activities aligned with units of study and student needs.
  • Utilize the Learning Without Tears curriculum with the 2nd-Step program to support academic and social-emotional development.
  • Participate in Professional Development opportunities offered by CSDA and BGCCA.
• Program Delivery
  • Work with the Lead Teacher to implement planned lessons and activities.
  • Deliver age-appropriate instruction in early literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies.
  • Support small group activities and provide individualized attention as needed.
  • Complete required documentation accurately and timely (progress reports, attendance, progress monitoring, goals, monthly updates).
  • Maintain a positive learning environment and support classroom management.
  • Keep the classroom organized, orderly, and stimulating.
• Health & Safety
  • Adhere to CSDA health and safety policies.
  • Maintain a safe learning environment and monitor potential hazards.
  • Support proper hygiene practices and student well-being.
  • Foster a nurturing, inclusive classroom atmosphere and report concerns.
  • Assist in emergencies according to procedures.
• Student Support & Development
  • Observe and document student progress and development.
  • Identify students needing additional support and assist with interventions as directed.
  • Assist with implementing IEPs or behavior plans as needed.
  • Encourage independence and positive social interactions.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Preferred:
  Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education
• Prior experience with young children in an educational setting is desirable
• Experience in an Early Childhood setting

Certifications

• Teaching Assistant Certification, or currently enrolled in a certification program
• Mandated Reporter Certification
• CPR and First Aid Training preferred

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to prioritize tasks and delegate when appropriate
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient with Google Office Suite or related software
• Must pass a comprehensive background check (fingerprinting, child abuse clearance, sex offender registry check) as required by BGCCA

Work Environment

• Early childhood classroom with moderate noise levels; standard indoor temperature control

Travel

• Minimal travel; occasional attendance at off-site professional development or district meetings

Physical Requirements

• Standing/walking up to 7 hours per day
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
• Fine motor coordination for computer work
• Regular verbal communication with children, staff, and parents
• Vision to monitor activities and safety

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages a diverse workforce, including people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals, to apply.