Teacher Assistant

Working Schedule
 
A Teacher Assistant generally works between Monday through Friday; ~37% work part-time. Some may be in charge of supervising students on school buses during trips to and from school, which may extend duty hours.
During periods when school is out (i.e., summer and holiday breaks), there may not be work. However, certain teacher assistants do work year-round.

Typical Duties

• Assist teachers in the preparation of lesson and activity materials
• Organize activities aimed at developing specific skills 
• Set up audio/visual or computer equipment 
• Provide extra “eyes on” students during class 
• Enforce classroom rules and model proper behavior
• Record student performance and offer insights to the teacher when necessary
• Keep track of attendance and assist with calculating grades
• Supervise students when the teacher is away, or when students are out of the classroom (i.e., in the halls, cafeterias, gym, at recess, or on field trips)
• Mentor individual students or assist small groups to offer personalized guidance with assigned tasks
• Offer additional support to students facing unique learning challenges

Additional Responsibilities

• Substitute during periods of the primary teacher’s absence
• Collaborate with peers on creating and improving student programs
• Work with teachers and parents to review student progress
• Help with meal preparation in daycares or preschool classrooms
• Assist children with basic skill acquisition
• Create a nurturing environment in which children can build skills
• Attend to basic needs (especially for young or special needs students)

Soft Skills

• Compassionate
• Composure
• Coordinating And Instructing Activities
• Creativity
• Decision-Making
• Desire And Aptitude To Help Others Succeed
• Empathetic
• Independent
• Leadership
• Monitoring
• Organization
• Patient
• Problem-Solving
• Resilience
• Resourcefulness
• Social And Cultural Awareness
• Sound Judgment
• Strong Communication Skills, Including Active Listening
• Teamwork

Technical Skills

• Social-emotional Learning (SEL) techniques
• CPR (certification often required)
• Inclusive practices
• Lesson planning
• General familiarity with computers (PC or Apple)
• Knowledge of visual presentation equipment (such as video magnifiers, televisions, etc.) 
• Knowledge of printers, scanners, and photocopy equipment
• Microsoft Office, Google apps, Macintosh software
• Using various school database automation systems 
• Familiarity with educational software designed for K-12 students

• Private and public schools
• Childcare centers
• Religious and volunteer organizations

Teacher Assistants are expected to support students and the lead teacher(s) as needed. Depending on the setting, the teacher assistant may work with one student in a full classroom or with a small group of students who may or may not have special needs.

The role requires someone who is dedicated to children and education. The person must pay attention to detail in assessing each student’s performance and ability, which will be shared with the teacher, administration, and parents as needed.

Teacher Assistants must exhibit high degrees of patience and enthusiasm while working in dynamic classroom environments. They are expected to model exemplary behavior at all times and maintain composure while addressing challenges such as inappropriate student behavior or emergency situations. They should be well-prepared for all planned lessons and activities, as well as unplanned contingencies. Teacher Assistants must be equipped to ensure the safety and well-being of the students they are tasked with watching over. 

Becoming a fully licensed teacher can be a challenge. Many Teacher Assistants are interested in gaining exposure to the work conditions teachers face, before making a lengthy and perhaps expensive commitment to seek licensure in their state. Teacher assistants can gain practical background experience, which will serve them well if they decide to invest in the process of becoming a teacher. 
 
After working as a Teacher Assistant, it is not uncommon for a person to decide that being a teacher is not the perfect fit for them. Others, however, will discover they do want to take the necessary steps to advance. Many are simply happy to remain as Teacher Assistants with lower wages than full teachers, but also less scope of responsibility.    

The role of Teacher Assistants is evolving with the integration of technology in education. Current trends show an increasing reliance on digital tools, such as interactive learning platforms and virtual classrooms, to enhance student engagement and streamline administrative tasks. Assistants are expected to be proficient in using educational software, managing online resources, and supporting students in navigating digital learning environments.

Many enjoyed the learning experiences from their own K-12 days. They want to return to the classroom, but on the “other side” of things. Instead of being a student, they want to help mentor and nurture students this time around. Teacher Assistants tend to be active and lively, enjoy social interactions, and both mental and physical challenges.
 
They may have volunteered or worked as counselors, coaches, trainers, or care providers in a range of areas. Some have personal experiences helping those who grapple with learning disabilities. They come from diverse backgrounds and most have a strong desire to work towards cultural and socioeconomic improvements within the educational system and beyond.