Preschool Assistant Teacher (Pre-K)
Sakonnet Early Learning Center – Tiverton, RI
Full-Time | Monday–Friday | Up to 40 hrs/week
Shift between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM
Compensation: $15.50–$19.50/hour (based on experience & credentials)
About the Opportunity
Sakonnet Early Learning Center, a long-standing early childhood education program serving Tiverton for 40+ years, is seeking a Pre-K Preschool Assistant Teacher to support high-quality early learning in a play-based, child-centered environment.
This role is ideal for individuals passionate about Early Childhood Education (ECE), kindergarten readiness, social-emotional learning (SEL), and hands-on, developmentally appropriate practice (DAP). You will collaborate with an experienced Lead Teacher to create meaningful learning experiences aligned with RIELDS, DCYF licensing requirements, and best practices in Pre-K.
Key Responsibilities
Classroom Support & Instruction
- Support daily instruction using developmentally appropriate practice (DAP), including centers, sensory play, literacy, art, math, science, and STEAM learning.
- Assist with implementing Creative Curriculum, Reggio Emilia, Montessori-inspired, and other high-quality ECE approaches.
- Prepare learning materials, coordinate transitions, and help maintain smooth classroom flow.
Child Development & SEL
- Foster positive behavior using positive guidance, Conscious Discipline, and consistent routines.
- Support children’s social-emotional development, friendship-building, problem solving, and self-regulation.
Documentation & Assessment
- Observe and document developmental milestones.
- Assist with portfolios, parent communication, and progress updates under Lead Teacher guidance.
Health, Safety & Licensing Compliance
- Maintain health, safety, and sanitation standards following DCYF regulations and center protocols.
- Supervise children indoors/outdoors and help ensure classroom environments meet licensing ratios.
Team Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with teachers and administrators; float to other classrooms when needed to support staffing.
- Participate in professional development, staff meetings, and ongoing training.
What We’re Looking For
Education & Credentials
- High school diploma or GED required.
- CDA, RIELDS training, or ECE coursework strongly preferred.
Experience
- Experience working with young children in a preschool, childcare, after-school, or early learning setting.
- Understanding of early childhood development, Pre-K readiness, and inclusive practices.
Skills & Qualities
- Warm, patient, and enthusiastic about learning through play.
- Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills.
- Reliable, professional, and committed to high-quality care.
- Familiarity with Procare/Brightwheel preferred (training provided).
Requirements
- Must be 18+ and able to pass all required background checks/BCI.
- CPR/First Aid certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).
- Must meet DCYF onboarding and training requirements.
Why Join Sakonnet Early Learning Center?
- Weekly pay
- PTO, paid vacation, and 12 paid holidays
- Health insurance support
- Generous childcare discount
- Free and funded professional development
- Coaching, mentorship, and pathways for career advancement
- A supportive, collaborative school culture focused on staff and child well-being
- Exposure to Reggio, Montessori, Creative Curriculum, SEL, STEM/STEAM, and other innovative early learning models
Join Our Team
Ready to help children discover, explore, and grow?
Apply today to become a Preschool Assistant Teacher at Sakonnet Early Learning Center and take the next step in your ECE career.
The Association for Early Learning Leaders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has been serving directors, owners and administrators of early care and education programs since 1984. Our goal is to strengthen the knowledge, skills and abilities of directors, owners, emerging leaders and other early learning professionals to ensure quality programs for young children.
This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this franchisee should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to Association for Early Learning Leaders.