Posted: 01-May-26
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Type: Full Time
Categories:
Preferred Education:
Riverside Presbyterian Day School, an independent co-educational elementary (PreK 3 – 6th Grade) day school located in Jacksonville, FL seeks a full-time 1st Grade Assistant teacher for the 2026-2027 school year.
The First Grade Assistant Teacher (floating) at Riverside Presbyterian Day School plays a vital role in supporting the academic and social development of students across three first-grade classrooms. This position works collaboratively and under the guidance of homeroom teachers to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment, providing instructional assistance at the discretion of the teachers, classroom management support, and attention to students as needed. The First Grade Assistant Teacher is flexible, proactive, and passionate about early childhood education.
As a member of the RPDS faculty, the First Grade Assistant Teacher participates fully in the life of the School and is committed to fostering a warm, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment in alignment with the School’s mission and values.
General Responsibilities
Instructional Support
- Reinforce lessons under the guidance of homeroom teachers, aligning with the Riverside Presbyterian Day School curriculum, mission, and philosophy.
- Support students within the homeroom classroom settings (i.e., not pull-out), individually or in groups, to present and/or reinforce learning concepts as directed by homeroom teachers.
- Implement instructional programs under the supervision of homeroom teachers.
Classroom & Student Management
- Assist with classroom management to maintain a structured, positive learning environment.
- Supervise students during transitions, recess, and lunch to ensure safety and well-being.
- Assist with arrival and dismissal routines, ensuring a smooth process and engaging with the community in a professional and positive manner.
- Provide consistent supervision and support for homeroom students throughout the school day.
- Participate in student assessments and data recording as directed by homeroom teachers.
Classroom Preparation & Organization
- Prepare and organize classroom materials to ensure teachers have the necessary resources for lessons and activities.
- Provide general classroom support, including setting up activities, organizing supplies, and maintaining a tidy learning environment.
- Assist in preparing Thursday folders and other forms of parent communication as directed by homeroom teachers.
- Assist with First Grade travel logistics and coordination.
School & Community Involvement
- Work collaboratively with homeroom teachers and the RPDS community, upholding the School’s core values and norms.
- Communicate effectively with teachers and staff to ensure seamless collaboration and student support.
- Maintain open communication with colleagues and the Director of the Lower Division.
- Relay important information and parent questions to homeroom teachers for them to address.
- Participate in parent meetings and conferences when appropriate, supporting student development under the direction and request of homeroom teachers.
Miscellaneous Responsibilities
- Adhere to the classroom section schedule established by homeroom teachers, ensuring equitable support across three sections.
- Stay current with best practices in Early Childhood Education and Child Development by participating in professional development opportunities.
- Attend and contribute to grade-level and faculty meetings.
- Establish and work toward at least one professional goal annually, in collaboration with the Director of the Lower Division.
- Serve as the lead teacher in the absence of the homeroom teacher.
- Perform other responsibilities as assigned.
General Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree with teaching qualification or equivalent
- Knowledge of child development
- Previous experience working with young children
- Empathetic, supportive, good sense of humor, and a positive disposition
- Knowledge of and proficiency with relevant technology
- A commitment to global and cultural competency, and a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community
- Strong organizational skills
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- High degree of integrity, discretion, and trustworthiness
- Ability to work with people productively and collaboratively
- Demonstrated ability to think resourcefully and creatively
- Professional demeanor and presentation
CONTACT
Candidates should submit an application, including cover letter, and resume to Sarabeth Soule, Executive Assistant to the Head of School, ssoule@rpds.com.
