2026-2027 Pre-School Teaching Assistant: Cathedral of St. Raymond, Joliet

Pre-School Teaching Assistant

St. Raymond School in Joliet, IL is seeking a part-time pre-school teaching assistant to begin in August of 2026. Ideal candidates should have a joyful, positive presence, strong collaboration and genuine love for working with children. The preschool teaching assistant plays a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing, and faith-filled learning environment where every child is known, loved, and encouraged to grow.

Working collaboratively with the classroom teacher, the teaching assistant supports the academic, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development of young learners through meaningful interactions, hands-on learning, and consistent care. The preschool teaching assistant models Christian values, builds positive relationships with students and families, and helps maintain a classroom culture rooted in kindness, curiosity, and respect. By assisting with daily routines, classroom organization, and individualized student support, the teaching assistant helps ensure that each child has the opportunity to develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Above all, the preschool teaching assistant embraces the mission of the school by fostering an environment where children experience the joy of learning, the love of Christ, and a strong sense of belonging.

With over 350 students, the Cathedral of St. Raymond School has proudly served the families in the Joliet area for over 100 years. It is our mission to help each child reach their greatest academic, social and spiritual potential. Student success is a reflection of a school culture that is Gospel-driven and joy-filled.

The teaching assistant will:

• Observe strictly the Code of Professional Ethics
• Support the classroom teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for all students.
• Assist with implementing developmentally appropriate lessons and activities that promote children's cognitive, language, social-emotional, physical, and spiritual growth.
• Foster a positive classroom climate by modeling kindness, respect, patience, and Christian values.
• Supervise students during classroom activities, recess, lunch, rest time, transitions, and other school functions to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Assist children with daily routines, including handwashing, toileting, dressing, eating, and developing age-appropriate self-help skills.
• Build positive relationships with students by encouraging independence, confidence, cooperation, and problem-solving.
• Support students with varying learning needs by providing individual or small-group assistance as directed by the classroom teacher.
• Prepare instructional materials, organize learning centers, and maintain an attractive, clean, and organized classroom environment.
• Assist with classroom setup, cleanup, and inventory of supplies and materials.
• Observe student behavior and communicate concerns or successes to the classroom teacher.
• Reinforce classroom expectations and behavior management strategies consistently and positively.
• Help maintain accurate attendance, classroom records, and documentation as requested.
• Participate in prayer, faith formation activities, liturgies, and other religious celebrations appropriate for preschool students.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding students, families, and school matters.
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with students, families, colleagues, and administrators.
• Follow all school policies and procedures, including health, safety, emergency, and child protection protocols.
• Attend faculty meetings, professional development opportunities, and required trainings as requested.
• Assist with school events, parent programs, field trips, and other activities as assigned.
• Demonstrate flexibility by performing other duties as assigned to support the mission and daily operations of the school.
• TAs are expected to attend all specials and be actively involved in the classroom management for special teachers
• Aid substitute teachers as necessary
• Follow all St. Ray's rules and regulations concerning staff conduct, appropriate dress, etc. as set forth in the Teacher Handbook and by the principal

Physical Requirements:

Frequently lift, carry, and move children and classroom materials weighing up to 40 pounds. Bend, kneel, squat, sit on the floor, and stand for extended periods throughout the day. Move actively throughout the classroom, playground, and school building while supervising children. Respond quickly to children's physical and safety needs.

Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred. Experience working with preschool-aged children preferred. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a teaching team. Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Commitment to supporting the mission, philosophy, and values of St. Raymond School. Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) and successful…