Junior Kindergarten Classroom Aide

Job Description

Junior Kindergarten Classroom Aide

St. Matthew’s Catholic School is a vibrant educational community dedicated to fostering academic excellence, spiritual growth, and the development of the whole child in a nurturing, faith-filled environment. We are committed to upholding Catholic values and traditions while providing a strong foundation for lifelong learning. We are currently seeking a dedicated individual to join our Junior Kindergarten team.

Job Summary:

St. Matthew’s Catholic School is seeking a compassionate, enthusiastic, and patient Junior Kindergarten Classroom Aide to support our lead teacher and provide a stimulating and supportive learning environment for our youngest students. The ideal candidate will embody warmth, possess high energy, and demonstrate exceptional patience, contributing positively to the spiritual, social, emotional, and cognitive development of each child within our Christ-centered curriculum.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the lead teacher in planning and implementing age-appropriate educational activities and lessons across various subjects, including faith formation, literacy, math, and motor skills.
• Supervise children during classroom activities, recess, snack time, lunch, and transitions, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
• Provide individualized attention and support to students as needed, including helping with academic tasks, personal care (e.g., toileting, handwashing), and emotional regulation.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and Christ-centered classroom atmosphere where every child feels valued, encouraged to learn, and supported in their faith journey.
• Help prepare classroom materials, organize learning centers, and maintain a clean, organized, and inviting learning environment.
• Observe and document student behavior and progress, reporting insights and concerns to the lead teacher to aid in individualized instruction.
• Support the implementation of classroom management strategies and school policies to maintain a structured and respectful environment.
• Assist with school-wide events, parent communications, and other duties as assigned by the lead teacher or administration.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and staff meetings as required.
• Model Catholic values and teachings in interactions with students, parents, and colleagues, upholding the school’s mission.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred.
• Previous experience working with young children (ages 3-5) in a school or childcare setting is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to be warm, high-energy, and exceptionally patient with young children.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, parents, and school staff.
• A genuine love for children and a passion for early childhood education rooted in Catholic values.
• Ability to follow directions, be flexible, and adapt to the dynamic needs of the classroom and individual students.
• Understanding of and commitment to the mission and values of Catholic education.
• Ability to pass a background check and complete all required Safe Environment training.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred, or willingness to obtain.

Required Attributes:

• Warmth: An empathetic and compassionate demeanor that fosters a sense of security, belonging, and emotional well-being for every child.
• High-Energy: The enthusiasm, stamina, and creativity to engage actively with young children throughout the day, participating in various activities, facilitating play, and managing transitions effectively.
• Patience: The ability to calmly and effectively manage the unique challenges and developmental stages of Junior Kindergarteners, understanding their individual needs, learning paces, and occasional frustrations with grace and understanding.
• Faith-Oriented: A commitment to modeling Christian virtues and supporting the Catholic identity of the school community.

Why Join St. Matthew’s?

• Opportunity to work in a supportive, faith-filled community dedicated to student success and spiritual formation.
• Be part of a team that makes a lasting positive impact on the lives of young children during their foundational learning years.
• A welcoming environment where professional growth and spiritual development are encouraged.

Application Process:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience to [Insert Email Address or Application Portal Link Here]. Please indicate “Junior Kindergarten Classroom Aide Application” in the subject line. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.