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Elementary Teaching Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Elementary Teacher

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

This position reports to the Principal or Assistant Principal. Location: Rocketship United Academy ... Preferred: Prior experience teaching in diverse school communities $54,048 - $70,940 a year ...

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Elementary Teaching Assistant information

What is an elementary teaching assistant?

Elementary teaching assistants, also known as teacher aides or paraprofessionals, support classroom teachers in elementary schools by helping with instructional and administrative tasks. Their duties often include working with small groups of students, assisting with lesson preparation, supervising students during activities, and helping to manage classroom behavior. They play a vital role in ensuring that students receive additional support, especially those who need extra help or have special needs. Teaching assistants also contribute to creating a positive and effective learning environment for young children.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an elementary teaching assistant?

To thrive as an Elementary Teaching Assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or associate's degree, basic knowledge of child development, and experience working with children. Familiarity with classroom management software, educational technology, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is commonly required. Patience, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for supporting both teachers and students. These skills ensure a positive, supportive learning environment and help facilitate student engagement and classroom efficiency.

What are the typical challenges faced by an elementary teaching assistant, and how can they be effectively managed?

Elementary Teaching Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing diverse classroom behaviors, adapting to varying learning styles, and balancing multiple tasks simultaneously. To effectively manage these, it's helpful to develop strong communication with the lead teacher, use positive reinforcement strategies, and stay organized with daily routines. Building rapport with students and seeking feedback from experienced colleagues can also make it easier to navigate these challenges and contribute positively to the classroom environment.

What is the difference between Elementary Teaching Assistant vs Classroom Support Worker?

AspectElementary Teaching AssistantClassroom Support Worker
Required CredentialsOften requires a relevant qualification or experience in educationMay require similar qualifications but less formal training
Work EnvironmentWorks directly in classrooms supporting teachers and studentsSupports classroom activities, often in a similar setting
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in schools, educational institutionsEmployed in schools, community centers, or special education settings
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for roles supporting student learningCompared for similar support roles in education

Elementary Teaching Assistants and Classroom Support Workers both support classroom activities and assist teachers. While credentials may overlap, Teaching Assistants typically have more formal education or certifications. Both roles are vital in educational settings, but Teaching Assistants often have more direct instructional responsibilities.

How to become an elementary teaching assistant?

To become an elementary teaching assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete relevant coursework or obtain a paraprofessional certification. Experience working with children and strong communication skills are also important, and some districts may require background checks or training programs before employment.

What qualifications do you need as an elementary teaching assistant?

Elementary teaching assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with children are essential, and some schools may prefer candidates with prior experience or certifications such as CPR or first aid.

What are popular job titles related to Elementary Teaching Assistant jobs in Tennessee?

For Elementary Teaching Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Elementary Teaching Assistant jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Elementary Teaching Assistant jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Elementary Teaching Assistant jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Elementary Teaching Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Elementary Teaching Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Teaching Assistant at CES and SCES

Clinton, TN โ€ข On-site

$11.50 - $14.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
The Elementary Teaching Assistant supports classroom teachers and school staff by assisting with instructional activities, providing intervention support to students, supervising students during non-instructional times, and performing other duties that contribute to a safe, positive, and effective learning environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Instructional Support
  • Assist teachers with classroom activities and instructional tasks.
  • Provide academic intervention and support to individual students and small groups based on teacher direction.
  • Reinforce learning concepts and instructional strategies introduced by classroom teachers.
  • Monitor student progress and communicate observations to teachers.
  • Assist with preparing instructional materials and classroom organization.
Student Supervision
  • Supervise students during lunch periods, recess, transitions, arrival, dismissal, and other assigned times.
  • Promote positive student behavior and reinforce school expectations.
  • Assist in maintaining a safe, orderly, and supportive environment.
Student Support
  • Build positive relationships with students while encouraging independence and responsibility.
  • Assist students with completing assignments and classroom activities.
  • Support students with varying academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.
Administrative and Other Duties
  • Assist with clerical tasks including copying, filing, organizing materials, and preparing classroom resources.
  • Participate in meetings, professional development, and training as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the principal, teacher, or district administration.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associate degree, paraprofessional certification, or college coursework preferred (if applicable).
  • Ability to work effectively with students, staff, and families.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
Physical Demands
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and move throughout the school day.
  • Ability to supervise students in various indoor and outdoor environments.
  • Ability to occasionally lift or move instructional materials and classroom supplies.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of basic instructional practices and child development.
  • Ability to follow teacher directions and work collaboratively.
  • Ability to maintain positive relationships with students and staff.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Work Environment
Work is performed primarily in classroom and school settings with regular interaction with students, staff, and families.