SUMMARY:
Do you have a heart for helping children grow and a passion for making a difference? At the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Academy, we’re looking for a dedicated and energetic Teacher’s Assistant who thrives in a supportive, faith-based educational environment. Here, you’ll be more than a helper—you’ll be a vital part of a team that uplifts students academically, emotionally, and spiritually. With a focus on individualized learning, Christian values, and the Winning in Life principles, you’ll help shape young minds and support a classroom where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered to succeed.
Interested individuals can apply through indeed, on JJK’s website https://jjkfoundation.org/job-opportunities/, in person at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center or by contacting the HR Director at [email protected]
SUMMARY
A Jackie Joyner-Kersee Academy Teacher’s assistant is passionate about working with youth. They collaborate with the Academy Principal, Lead teacher, other staff members and parents to ensure the students receive the best education we can provide. Staff and administration are committed to building something extraordinary. Our goal is to close the achievement gap by making the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Academy a dynamic learning environment where every child is genuinely embraced and uplifted.
RESPONSIBILITES:
- Support the lead teacher in implementing a program of study that meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of each student.
- Assist with monitoring students and maintaining the daily class schedule.
- Prepare instructional materials and classroom setup to ensure lessons run smoothly.
- Reinforce learning by working with students one-on-one or in small groups, as directed by the teacher.
- Supervise students during non-instructional times, including mealtimes, recess, transitions, and field trips—with or without the lead teacher present.
- Support the lead teacher in utilizing creative instructional methods and materials that address students’ spiritual, mental, physical, social, and emotional needs.
- Collaborate with the lead teacher to identify student challenges and contribute to developing appropriate strategies.
- Model and help teach Jackie Joyner-Kersee’s Winning In Life principles, Biblical values, and a Christian philosophy of education.
- Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
- Help maintain accurate records related to student behavior, attendance, or progress, as assigned.
- Communicate professionally with students, parents, and staff, fostering a positive and respectful learning environment.
- Attend and participate in staff meetings, in-services, retreats, and school events as required.
- Take necessary precautions to protect students, classroom materials, and school property.
- Perform other duties as assigned
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
- High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree in Education, Early Childhood, or a related field preferred
- Minimum 2 years of experience working with children in a school, childcare, or youth program setting
- Experience assisting in a classroom environment strongly preferred
- Comfortable using technology in a classroom setting (e.g., Microsoft Office, Promethean boards, tablets
SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written
- Patience, empathy, and a passion for working with children from diverse backgrounds
- Organized and attentive to detail, especially when managing classroom materials and student needs
- Ability to work collaboratively and take direction from lead teachers and administrators
- Basic understanding of child development and educational support strategies
- Flexible and able to respond positively to shifting classroom needs and environment
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Requires regular movement throughout the classroom and organization property, including standing for extended periods and transitioning between sitting, walking, and bending throughout the day
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 15 pounds occasionally (e.g., educational materials, supplies)
- Must be able to perform physical activities such as reaching, stooping, crouching, and kneeling as needed to assist students
- Requires visual acuity to observe students, read materials, and operate classroom technology
- The noise level is typically moderate but may become loud during group activities or transitions
- Must be able to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities simultaneously in a dynamic, fast-paced educational environment
- Ability to respond calmly and effectively in stressful or unexpected situations involving children
Status:
Schedule:
Reports to:
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
This job description outlines the general responsibilities and expectations for the role but is not a complete list of all tasks or duties. Duties may change as needed.
We’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Employment with the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation is at-will, meaning either the employee or the Foundation may end the relationship at any time, with or without notice or cause.
Rate of Pay: $17.00 – $18.50 (based on education & experience)
