What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Teacher – First Grade position at Episcopal School of Nashville?
Episcopal School of Nashville (ESN) seeks a compassionate, dependable, and collaborative educator to serve as the Assistant Teacher in a First Grade classroom, with additional responsibilities as an Aftercare Attendant. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in early elementary education and a desire to support young learners academically and socially in a nurturing, inclusive environment.
Description
Assistant Teachers at ESN work closely with lead teachers and staff to provide instructional and emotional support, model respectful behavior, and help create a joyful and engaging classroom experience. This position also includes leading or supporting the school’s aftercare program, helping students transition from the school day to a structured and caring after-school environment. This role requires flexibility, patience, and a commitment to ESN’s Portrait of a Graduate values: Respectful, Responsible, Creative, Inclusive, Critical Thinkers, and Lifelong Learners.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Classroom Support & Instruction
- Assist the Lead Teacher with instruction, preparation of materials, and classroom management.
- Support individual students or small groups during lessons, centers, and activities.
- Reinforce classroom routines, expectations, and social-emotional learning goals.
- Help prepare the classroom environment for daily learning, including organizing materials and tidying shared spaces.
- Assist in assessing student work and maintaining documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher.
Student Development & Care
- Build strong, respectful relationships with students and help foster a sense of community and belonging.
- Support students’ social, emotional, and behavioral growth through gentle guidance and modeling.
- Respond to student needs with care, empathy, and consistency.
- Supervise students in various settings, including classroom, hallways, playground, lunch, and transitions.
Aftercare Program Responsibilities
- Provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for students during aftercare hours.
- Plan and supervise age-appropriate activities such as games, crafts, outdoor play, and homework help.
- Ensure student safety and accountability during check-in, snack, and dismissal.
- Communicate effectively with families and school staff regarding student needs, incidents, or scheduling updates.
Professionalism & Collaboration
- Work in partnership with the Lead Teacher, student support team, and administration.
- Attend staff meetings and professional development sessions as required.
- Demonstrate flexibility, reliability, and a willingness to support school-wide initiatives and events.
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
Qualifications & Skills
- Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in education or a related field (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
- Prior experience working with elementary-aged children in a school or childcare setting.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.
- Ability to take direction while also showing initiative and responsibility.
- Enthusiasm for working with young children and supporting their growth.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and engage actively with children throughout the school day.
- Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and supervise outdoor play in various weather conditions.
Additional Information
This is a full-time, 10-month position reporting to the Director of Student and Faculty Engagement. Regular hours include school day support and aftercare responsibilities until approximately 5:30 PM. Salary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience.
Episcopal School of Nashville is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds.
