Early Childhood Assistant Teacher (Toddlers)

Summary

Are you the type of teacher who is excited by experiential, play-based learning opportunities in a small school environment? Gardner School is looking for dedicated and creative educators to join our dynamic staff and help move the school forward as a leader in progressive education in Clark County. Gardner is a place where creativity, connection, curiosity, and courage are celebrated, and where learning is ongoing for students, staff, and families. Gardner School has two campus locations, our Preschool-6th grade Main Campus in the Mt. Vista neighborhood in Vancouver, and the 18 months-school age Country Friends Campus in Hockinson.

The Assistant Teacher at Gardner’s Country Friends Campus supports the Lead Teacher in providing a warm, engaging, developmentally appropriate environment for young children ages 18 months-3 years old. This role is essential in implementing play-based learning activities, maintaining classroom safety, and nurturing positive relationships with children and families.



Assistant Teachers help set up and facilitate activities, observe and support children’s learning, and contribute to daily classroom routines. They work under the guidance of a Lead Teacher and in collaboration with other team members. The ideal candidate brings enthusiasm for early childhood education and a readiness to learn and grow alongside the team.

Duties

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the Lead Teacher in implementing a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum.
• Assist in preparing materials and classroom spaces for daily activities.
• Engage positively with children, modeling respectful behavior and supporting social-emotional development.
• Observe children and share relevant insights with the Lead Teacher to support planning and documentation.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
• Supervise children both indoors and outdoors, ensuring their safety and wellbeing.
• Participate in ongoing communication with families under the direction of the Lead Teacher.
• Collaborate with team members and contribute to a cohesive, supportive teaching environment.
• Assist with transitions, meals, rest time, and other daily routines.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development as required.
• Adhere to all DCYF licensing requirements and support Early Achievers participation.
• Fulfill additional duties as assigned by the supervisor, including lead teacher.

Requirements

DCYF Requirements Before Hiring:

• Minimum Age: 18
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Completion of required DCYF (DEL) certifications in MERIT
• Portable background check
• TB Test
• Completion of 30-hour Child Care Basics training
• Current First Aid and CPR certification
• Blood Borne Pathogens Training
• Food Handler Permit

DCYF Requirements After Hiring:

• 10 STARS hours of continuing education annually
• Completion of EQEL Year 1 and 2 (as required)
• Pursuit of 12-credit Initial Certificate within 5 years (or equivalent credential)

Nice To Haves

Preferred Attributes:

• Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach to working with peers and families
• Interest in experiential, play-based education and child-led learning
• Familiarity with Google Drive and basic classroom technologies

Benefits

Position Classification: Hourly, non-exempt

Hours: Full Time (11:30am-6:00pm)

Benefits: Some part-time and all full-time positions qualify for Medical and Dental coverage (up to 100% employer contribution based on schedule), retirement plan (up to 3% employer match), and paid time off.