Preschool Assistant Teacher​/part-time

Description

Incorporated in 1955 and encompassing more than 454 acres, the Mt. Prospect Park District provides outstanding recreational programs, events, parks, facilities and services. With seven primary facilities and 27 neighborhood parks, the Park District is an integral part of a thriving multi-generational community. District open space includes two outdoor pools, biking and walking paths, a dog park and sizable space for outdoor athletic programming.

The District covers over 11 square miles and serves a region of over a quarter million residents in Mount Prospect and surrounding communities.
The Mt. Prospect Park District is a proud recipient of the 2026 Illinois Parks and Recreation Association Exceptional Workplace Award!

We are searching for a part-time Preschool Assistant Teacher responsible for assisting in teaching preschool-age children, as well as planning, organizing, and implementing day‑to‑day preschool activities, under the direct supervision of the Early Childhood and Youth Manager. The part‑time Preschool Assistant Teacher can expect to work Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM, and/or Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12:00 PM – 4:15 PM, beginning in September through May (school year), with staff meetings beginning in mid‑August.

The part‑time Preschool Assistant Teacher must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check.

The pay rate for the part‑time Preschool Assistant Teacher is $16.00+/hour, depending on qualifications. Plus, Park District employees receive facility privileges.

Please see below for more details on the essential and secondary duties and job qualifications.

• Assist the Lead Teacher in supervising program activities, including classroom preparation, clean‑up, behavior management, leading activities, and ensuring a successful preschool classroom.
• Understand the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social needs of children ages 2.5–5 years.
• Be able to work Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 AM‑1:00 PM, and/or Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 12:00 PM‑4:15 PM, from September through May (school year). Staff meetings will begin mid‑August.
• Demonstrate knowledge of developmental learning progressions and the ability to assess children’s needs.
• Provide a variety of age‑appropriate and relevant activities and materials.
• Establish positive and nurturing relationships with all children in the program.
• Interact and build relationships with parents.
• Help maintain a clean and organized classroom to provide a warm, safe environment for children to learn and grow.
• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher and other preschool instructors.
• Perform the job safely and in compliance with Park District policies, procedures, and safety rules.
• Administer first aid when required.
• Dress in appropriate attire in accordance with the handbook.
• Attend required training and meetings.
• Attend all preschool staff meetings, open houses, and other special events as scheduled and directed by the Early Childhood & Youth Manager.
• Integrate all children in a positive and respectful manner.

• Perform additional duties or special projects as assigned, which may be considered essential.
• Maintain a neat and orderly work environment; return supplies and equipment to the appropriate location when finished.
• Carry out all other duties as assigned by the Early Childhood and Youth Manager, Director of Recreation, and/or Executive Director. In emergencies, perform all other duties as required.

• Must be a high school graduate with early childhood experience.
• Must be able to care for, work with, and relate to children.
• Must be able to maintain positive and effective working relationships with employees, children, and the general public. Must display a pleasant personality.
• Must have a solid work record demonstrating a positive attitude, reliability, initiative, tact, and productivity.
• Must possess the capacity to remain composed during periods of high activity and in emergency situations.
• Must be able to follow tasks through to completion.
• Must be able to work in a team atmosphere, promoting positive work relationships with supervisors and co‑workers.
• Mu…