Pre-K Counts Assistant Teacher

About Us

At Early Connections, we know that high-quality early education influences the trajectory of a child’s life. As our programs across Erie County, PA continue to grow, we are looking for passionate, qualified educators who want to grow with us. We pride ourselves on building a supportive, family-like work environment where you are valued and respected.

Why You’ll Love Working Here (The Perks)

We believe in taking care of the people who take care of our students. Early Connections provides a robust, security-focused package to ensure you and your family are supported:

• Paid Holidays from Day One: No waiting period. You are eligible for paid holidays the moment you join our team.
• Generous Paid Time Off: A healthy mix of personal, vacation, and sick time because we know you need time to recharge.
• 100% Employer-Paid Dental & Vision: We cover the premium cost for your dental and vision insurance.
• Comprehensive Health & Security: Access to affordable Health Insurance, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and Employer-Paid Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability.
• Retirement Security: A 401(k)-plan featuring a company contribution plus a matching program to help you save for the future.
• Professional Growth: We don’t just want you to work here; we want you to advance. We offer ongoing professional development and clear pathways for career growth.

What A Day Looks Like:

As a Pre-K Counts Assistant Teacher, you play a vital role alongside the Lead Teacher in guiding developmental milestones and creating a safe, nurturing learning environment:

• Classroom Support: Partnering with the Pre-K Counts Lead Teacher to implement daily routines, manage classroom transitions, and maintain a safe, clean, and organized space.
• Hands-on Learning: Assisting children during small-group activities, art, story time, and play-based learning that align with PA Pre-K Counts guidelines.
• Guiding Social Skills: Helping children navigate peer interactions, build confidence, practice emotional regulation, and learn self-help skills.
• Individualized Attention: Providing targeted support to help individual children reach their developmental and academic milestones.

What We are Looking For

To comply with PA Department of Human Services (DHS) and PA Pre-K Counts (22 Pa. Code § 405.44) staffing regulations, applicants must meet at least one of the following educational qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED AND a valid Child Development Associate (CDA) credential; OR
• An Associate Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field

Additional Requirements

• Experience working with young children in a licensed childcare or early learning setting.
• Commitment to completing 24 hours of required continuous professional development annually in early childhood education.
• A genuine enthusiasm, compassion, and patience for young children.
• Ability to successfully pass all standard Child Protective Clearances.
• Reliable daily transportation to our Erie locations.

Safety & Clearances

• Clearances Required: Ability to successfully obtain/pass standard PA Child Protection Clearances prior to hire
• Health Screening: Current physical exam and Mantoux Tuberculosis (TB) screening.
• General Skills: High energy, patience, compassion, and reliable daily transportation to our Erie County locations.

Early Connections, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or an Associate Degree in ECE or a similar major?
• Are you available to work full-time Monday - Friday between the hours of 6:30 AM and 5:00 PM?
• Do you have reliable transportation to work in person in Erie County, PA?

Work Location: In person