Early Learning Aide

JOB TITLE:

Early Learning Aide

PROGRAM/DEPARTMENT:
Little Learners Academy

REPORTS TO:

Director of Early Childhood Education & Policy

The Early Learning Aide (ELA) supports the daily operations of Little Learners Academy classrooms by providing classroom coverage, individualized student support, and assistance with implementing high-quality early childhood practices. The ELA works collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and families to create a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment that promotes children's social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development. This position provides flexible support across classrooms and may assist with small-group instruction, classroom transitions, behavior support, supervision, teacher planning time, and the implementation of individualized strategies for children who require additional support.

The ELA plays an essential role in ensuring continuity of instruction and maintaining a positive learning environment for all children.

• Support teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with Preschool for All (PFA) requirements and the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards.
• Assist with individual, small-group, and whole-group instruction under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Provide classroom coverage to support teacher planning time, coaching, meetings, and professional development activities.
• Support children with diverse learning, developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional needs through inclusive practices and individualized assistance.
• Maintain active supervision of children at all times to ensure a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment.
• Assist with daily classroom routines, including arrival, dismissal, transitions, meals, rest time, toileting, and outdoor play.
• Support the implementation of Creative Curriculum and classroom activities designed to promote school readiness and child development.
• Observe and document children's progress and share relevant information with classroom teachers and administrators.
• Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, healthy, and safe classroom environment and learning materials.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and staff while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
• Participate in required trainings, staff meetings, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the successful operation of Little Learners Academy.

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Required:
  
  Preschool CDA Credential or must achieve the credentials within one year of hire if no degree.
• Preferred:
  Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field or minimum of 15 college credit hours in Early Childhood Education.
• Experience working with young children in an educational, childcare, or youth development setting.
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suites and G-Suites.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
• Experience working with a diverse population of students.
• A fierce commitment to equity.

Able to work indoors and occasionally outdoors. Role requires sitting, standing, squatting, kneeling, seeing, hearing, and the ability to lift a minimum of 10 lbs.

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Life Insurance
• Short-term Disability
• Employee Assistant Program (EAP)
• 403(b)