UPK Teaching Assistant (Cohoes

Full-time

Position Title:

UPK Teaching Assistant

Performance Profile:
Front Line

Department:
Universal Prekindergarten

Work Location:

Varies, Cohoes City School District

Reports to:

UPK Director

Salary Range:
From $16.00/hour

Hours &

Schedule:

Monday
- Friday, 37.5 hours/week

Classification:
Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Full-Time Benefits:
Paid school holidays and breaks, sick leave, 401(k) w/match, health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, New York Paid Family Leave benefits, retirement benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), and eligibility for additional third-party discounts.

Note:
This is a 10-month position (August 2025 - June 2026) with BGCCA, working in collaboration with the Cohoes City School District (CCSD).

Universal Pre-Kindergarten Teaching Assistants play a vital role in supporting Lead Teachers in planning, developing, and instructing students aged 3-4 years. This role follows the approved curriculum goals, standards, and learning objectives of the respective school district to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for academic and social-emotional achievement. Working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, Teaching Assistants are responsible for assisting with classroom management and program delivery.

Planning & Leadership:

• Assist in creating and submitting weekly lesson plans based on approved curriculum and individual student needs.
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to ensure all necessary materials and resources are prepared for classroom activities.
• Help develop and implement creative, hands‑on classroom activities aligned with predetermined units of study and student needs.
• Utilize the Learning Without Tears curriculum in conjunction with the 2nd‑Step program to facilitate both academic and social‑emotional development.
• Actively participate in Professional Development opportunities offered by the school district and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area.

Program Delivery:

• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to implement planned lessons and activities effectively.
• Assist in delivering age‑appropriate instruction in various subject areas, including early literacy, numeracy, science, and social studies.
• Support small group activities and provide individualized attention to students as needed.
• Complete required documentation accurately and timely, including progress reports, attendance records, progress monitoring forms, summary/goal sheets, and monthly updates.
• Provide guidance and support to ensure effective classroom management and a positive learning environment.
• Assist in organizing and maintaining an orderly, attractive, and stimulating classroom environment.

Health & Safety:

• Adhere to and help enforce health and safety regulations and policies established by the school district.
• Maintain a safe and secure learning environment for students by actively monitoring and addressing potential hazards.
• Assist in implementing proper hygiene practices and routines among students.
• Support the emotional well‑being of students by fostering a nurturing and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
• Remain alert to signs of child abuse or neglect and report concerns through appropriate channels.
• Assist in managing emergency situations according to established procedures.

Student Support and Development:

• Observe and document student progress, behavior, and developmental milestones.
• Assist in identifying students who may need additional support or intervention.
• Help implement individualized education plans (IEPs) or behavior plans as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Encourage student independence and self‑help skills appropriate for their age and developmental level.
• Promote positive social interactions among students and model appropriate behavior and communication.

DISCLAIMER:
The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.

Education / Experience / Certification:

• Preferre…