Bilingual (Spanish/English) Preschool Assistant Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Part-Time Spanish Speaking Preschool Teaching Assistant Hope Academy PA Preschool is seeking a dynamic and nurturing Part-Time Spanish Speaking preschool (ages 2.5 to 4) Teaching Assistant to join our bilingual (Spanish/English), STEAM-focused preschool program. This is an exciting opportunity to support young learners as they explore, discover, and develop foundational skills in a vibrant, dual-language environment. About Hope Academy PA Preschool: Hope Academy PA (HAPA) was founded in the fall of 2023 as the U.S. educational expression of Tree 4 Hope, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to providing a quality globally-minded, bilingual S.T.E.A.M. education here and abroad. The first Hope Academy was founded in 2019 in Santa Lucia Milpas Altas, Guatemala. In Guatemala, it is a bilingual S.T.E.A.M. school for girls only and provides life-changing education to children who would normally not have the opportunity to attend school at all. Hope Academy PA endeavors to offer a quality early childhood education with the unique focus of S.T.E.A.M. in a bilingual environment, which will enrich the community in which we are located. Our goal is to provide a safe, nurturing environment where children are celebrated for their individuality and encouraged to explore the richness of diversity among their peers while developing global connections with our students in Guatemala. Hope Academy PA provides an age appropriate and welcoming preschool atmosphere that fosters opportunities for young children to explore science, technology, engineering, art and math through meaningful play, planned lessons, experiments and fun! We believe in hands-on exploration and supporting each child's individual growth. We support social, emotional, academic and spiritual growth of children and uphold positive partnerships with parents, teachers, St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, the ELCA synod and surrounding community. Position Overview: The Teaching Assistant will work closely with the Lead Teacher to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment for our younger preschool students. This role requires fluency in Spanish to facilitate instruction and communication with children in our bilingual program, as well as an interest in supporting STEAM activities. Responsibilities: ● Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing daily lessons and activities, particularly in delivering instruction in Spanish. ● Provide direct support to students, individually and in small groups, reinforcing concepts in both Spanish and English as needed. ● Fluently communicate with students primarily in Spanish, supporting their language development and comprehension. ● Help prepare and organize classroom materials, especially for STEAM-related projects and bilingual resources. ● Supervise children during various activities, including playtime, mealtimes, and transitions, ensuring their safety and well-being. ● Support classroom management and help maintain a positive and inclusive learning atmosphere. ● Assist with classroom clean-up and organization at the end of the day or as needed. ● Observe and report student progress, behavior, and any concerns to the Lead Teacher. ● Collaborate with the Lead Teacher and other staff members to ensure a cohesive program. ● Participate in relevant staff meetings or professional development as required. ● Assist with diaper changing if necessary (for young 3s class). Qualifications: ● Fluent in Spanish (oral and written) and proficient in English. ● Experience working with young children (ages 3-5) in a classroom or childcare setting. ● Genuine interest in early childhood education, STEAM learning, and bilingual development. ● Ability to follow directions, take initiative, and work effectively as part of a team. ● Patient, flexible, and enthusiastic approach to working with young children. ● Strong communication and interpersonal skills. ● High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Hours: This is a part-time position, with salary based on 17-20 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM, with 3-4 evening or weekend activities throughout the year. To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume, a brief cover letter outlining their experience and interest in this role, and 2 references to School Director Jennifer Graf at jen@t4hope.org. Please emphasize your Spanish language fluency and your experience with young children. Additionally, candidates must submit clearances (PA Child Abuse, PA State Police and Federal FBI) completed within the past 5 years to be considered for employment offers. Tree 4 Hope/Hope Academy PA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.