Teaching Assistant

Description:

Kamehameha Schools is seeking a Preschool Teaching Assistant to join its dedicated instructional team in Hilo, Hawaii. This role plays an integral part in delivering high-quality, Hawaiian Culture-Based Education that promotes Christian values, nurtures children’s development, and strengthens the Native Hawaiian community. The Teaching Assistant will support the lead teacher in classroom instruction, student supervision, family engagement, and program implementation, while ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for preschool learners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Instructional Support:

  • Provide direct instructional assistance to students individually, in small groups, and in whole-class settings.

  • Prepare and develop engaging instructional materials and support teachers in implementing lesson plans.

  • Facilitate group learning activities that foster collaboration, creativity, and active participation.

  • Observe and document student behavior, development, and progress for assessments.

• Supervision & Student Care:

  • Independently supervise students using positive early childhood behavior management strategies.

  • Monitor students during classroom activities, playtime, and breaks to ensure safety and well-being.

• Program & Classroom Support:

  • Assist in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment.

  • Support in menu planning, supply management, and health/safety checks.

  • Maintain accurate student records, including attendance and documentation of progress.

  • Participate in professional development and training opportunities to remain current with educational best practices.

• Family Engagement:

  • Build strong relationships with families through consistent communication regarding student progress.

  • Participate in home visits with teachers to strengthen family-school connections.

  • Provide constructive feedback and support to families to enhance student learning and development.

• Substitute Teaching (as needed):

  • Assume responsibility for classroom management, instructional delivery, and student supervision in the absence of the lead teacher.

  • Follow or implement lesson plans to maintain continuity in learning.

  • Conduct child assessments and provide interventions where necessary.

Position Requirements:

• Minimum Qualifications:

  • One of the following credentials:

    • Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), OR

    • Associate’s Degree with at least 9 ECE credits, OR

    • Child Development Associate (CDA) certification, OR

    • 2 years of college (60 credits) with at least 16 ECE credits.

  • Minimum of 6 months relevant work experience.

  • Valid Hawaii Driver’s License (or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire).

  • Current Community First Aid & Pediatric CPR Certification.

  • Current Department of Health Food Handler’s Certification.

  • Strong classroom management and early childhood behavior strategy skills.

  • Proficiency with classroom technology and assessment tools.

  • Ability to build nurturing relationships with children and families.

• Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.

  • At least 2 years classroom experience with preschool/early childhood learners.

  • Experience in planning and implementing instructional activities.

  • Familiarity with culturally relevant and Hawaiian culture-based curricula.

Working Conditions:

• Work conducted both indoors and outdoors, requiring flexibility and adaptability.

• May involve travel to off-site locations, including neighbor islands.

• Standard Monday–Friday schedule, with responsibilities requiring physical stamina including lifting up to 30 pounds, bending, kneeling, and other active movements.

• Position follows a 10-month work year schedule.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive hourly pay of $26.40 – $35.42 (commensurate with education, experience, and skills).

• Approximately $4224 – $5670 monthly.

• Comprehensive Total Rewards Program, including physical, mental, and financial wellness benefits, along with professional development opportunities.

About Kamehameha Schools:
Kamehameha Schools is deeply committed to serving and uplifting the Native Hawaiian community by providing a culture-based education rooted in Hawaiian values and Christian principles. The school fosters a nurturing learning environment, professional growth for educators, and strong connections with families to ensure the holistic development of each child.