Early Morning Childcare Assistant

Early Morning Childcare Assistant (Preschool–Kindergarten)

Reports to: Director of Auxiliary Programs and Strategic Initiatives 
Schedule: School days, 7:30–8:30 a.m.
Classification: Part-Time $22-$24 per hour 

Position Summary

Lesley Ellis School seeks a caring, reliable, and engaging Early Morning Drop-Off Childcare Assistant to welcome our youngest students each morning. This individual creates a safe, calm, and nurturing environment for children ages 3–6 before the start of the school day, helping each child transition confidently from home to school.

The ideal candidate enjoys working with young children, understands child development, and values creating a warm, inclusive community where every child feels seen, safe, and ready to learn.

Essential Responsibilities

• Welcome children and families warmly each morning.
• Ensure the safe arrival and supervision of Preschool, PreK, TK and Kindergarten students.
• Create a calm, engaging environment through quiet play, books, art materials, puzzles, and other developmentally appropriate activities.
• Support children in making a positive transition into the school day.
• Foster respectful interactions and model kindness, patience, and inclusion.
• Assist children with basic needs, including handwashing, bathroom routines (as appropriate), and preparing for the school day.
• Monitor attendance and communicate any absences or concerns to the appropriate school personnel.
• Maintain appropriate supervision ratios and ensure children's safety at all times.
• Follow all school policies regarding health, safety, emergency procedures, and child protection.
• Communicate professionally with families and colleagues.
• Prepare the space before students arrive and ensure it is left organized for the instructional day.
• Transition students safely to classroom teachers at the beginning of the school day.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children ages 3–6 in a school, childcare, camp, or similar setting.
• Warm, patient, and nurturing demeanor.
• Strong judgment and ability to respond calmly in a variety of situations.
• Ability to build positive relationships with young children and families.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• CORI, SORI, fingerprinting, and other required background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Knowledge of child development and positive behavior support strategies.
• Experience in a progressive school setting.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to actively supervise young children indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to bend, kneel, sit on the floor, and engage in active play.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

About Lesley Ellis School

Lesley Ellis School is a progressive, independent school serving students from Preschool through Grade 8. We believe children learn best in an inclusive community where curiosity, creativity, and joyful learning are nurtured each day. We seek educators who value collaboration, equity, and building meaningful relationships with children and families.