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Preschool Assistant Teacher Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kids N Fitness

PFA Assistant Teacher/Paraprofessional

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Description Position at Kids N Fitness Kids N Fitness East, in Decatur, is seeking a Teacher Assistants/Paraprofessionals to support our Illinois Preschool for All (PFA) Program in our PreK classroom!

Kids N Fitness

PFA Assistant Teacher/Paraprofessional

Decatur, IL

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... Preschool for All (PFA) Program in our PreK classroom! To beQUALIFIEDfor this position, we requirea ... Shirts and Swag - we love to show appreciation for our teachers! MainJob Responsibilities: * Assist ...

Kids N Fitness

Assistant Teacher

Decatur, IL

$17 - $18/hr

  • Retirement

Description Kids N Fitness of Decatur East is a licensed childcare center seeking an Assistant Teacher to support our Infant , Toddler or PreK classrooms! To be QUALIFIED for this position, we ...

Kids N Fitness

Assistant Teacher

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

  • Retirement

Description Position at Kids N Fitness Kids N Fitness of Decatur East is a licensed childcare center seeking an Assistant Teacher to support our Infant , Toddler or PreK classrooms! To be QUALIFIED ...

Kids N Fitness

Assistant Teacher

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

  • Retirement

Operate as a team player and willingness to help where needed under the director of the lead teacher. * Physical ability to work around small children including sitting, standing,walking,running, and ...

Kids N Fitness

Assistant Teacher

Decatur, IL

$17 - $18/hr

  • Retirement

Operate as a team player and willingness to help where needed under the director of the lead teacher. * Physical ability to work around small children including sitting, standing,walking,running, and ...

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Preschool Assistant Teacher information

See Decatur, IL salary details

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$15

$19

How much do preschool assistant teacher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for preschool assistant teacher in Decatur, IL is $15.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $16.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a preschool assistant teacher?

Preschool assistant teachers support lead teachers in early childhood classrooms by helping to implement lesson plans, supervise children, and maintain a safe, nurturing environment. They assist with classroom activities, prepare materials, and help manage daily routines such as meals, playtime, and rest periods. Preschool assistant teachers also provide individual attention to children, encourage social and emotional development, and communicate with parents and caregivers about student progress.

What does a preschool teacher assistant do?

As a preschool teacher assistant, you help lead and manage a classroom under the supervision of the teacher. Your duties include supervising the class, assisting children who need additional care or attention, directing school activities such as arts and crafts, observing students, and reporting to the teacher. You may accompany children on field trips, monitor nap or playtime, ensure that students are eating properly, and watch students during school drop-off and pick-up times. Your responsibilities may also include discussing academic or behavioral issues with parents and school staff.

How does a preschool assistant teacher support lead teachers in the classroom?

Preschool Assistant Teachers play a vital role by helping lead teachers implement lesson plans, manage classroom routines, and ensure a safe, nurturing environment for young children. They often assist with activities such as setting up learning materials, supervising playtime, and guiding children through daily transitions. Collaboration is key, as assistant teachers frequently communicate with the lead teacher about children's progress and behavior, contributing ideas and observations to improve classroom experiences. This teamwork provides valuable learning opportunities and helps build essential skills for future advancement in early childhood education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a preschool assistant teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preschool Assistant Teacher, you need a basic understanding of early childhood development, child safety, and classroom management, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant coursework in early childhood education. Familiarity with educational tools, activity planning software, and child observation systems is beneficial. Patience, strong communication, and teamwork skills help foster a nurturing classroom environment and positive interactions with children and staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting young learners’ growth and ensuring a safe, engaging, and collaborative classroom experience.

What is the difference between Preschool Assistant Teacher vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectPreschool Assistant TeacherPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require CDA or early childhood education coursesAssociate’s or Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field; state certification often required
Work EnvironmentAssist in classrooms, support lead teachers, supervise childrenLead classroom activities, develop lesson plans, assess student progress
Employer & Industry UsagePreschools, daycare centers, early childhood programsPreschools, private and public early childhood education settings

While both roles support early childhood development, Preschool Assistant Teachers primarily assist lead teachers and require fewer credentials. Preschool Teachers take on more responsibility in planning and managing classroom activities, often requiring higher education and certification.

What does a preschool assistant teacher do at a preschool?

A preschool assistant teacher supports lead teachers by supervising children, helping with classroom activities, and ensuring a safe and engaging environment. They often assist with lesson preparation, behavior management, and maintaining classroom routines, requiring patience and basic knowledge of early childhood development. The role typically involves working during school hours and may require certification or background checks.

What qualifications do you need to be a preschool assistant teacher?

Preschool assistant teachers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete early childhood education coursework or training. Some positions prefer or require CPR and first aid certification, and strong communication and patience skills are essential for working with young children.
More about Preschool Assistant Teacher jobs

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For Preschool Assistant Teacher jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Preschool Assistant Teacher jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Preschool Assistant Teacher job openings:

Preschool Assistant Teacher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preschool Assistant Teacher job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,684 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

PFA Assistant Teacher/Paraprofessional

Kids N Fitness

Decatur, IL • On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at Kids N Fitness
Kids N Fitness East, in Decatur, is seeking a Teacher Assistants/Paraprofessionals to support our Illinois Preschool for All (PFA) Program in our PreK classroom!
To be QUALIFIED for this position, we require a high school diploma OR GED and an Illinois Paraprofessional license. Previous childcare experience is preferred.
Required Shift: Monday - Friday, Full-time, 8am-5pm
Compensation: $18 - $19 per hour, based on education and experience
We are a family-oriented, close-knit organization and we have a lot to offer our next team member including:
  • Competitive Pay
  • Paid Trainings, including Enhanced Career and Professional Development
  • Generous Benefits Package, including Dental, Medical, and Vision Insurance
  • 401k with Match
  • Discounts for Childcare
  • Fun and Positive Place to Work
  • Open Door Policy
  • Shirts and Swag - we love to show appreciation for our teachers!

Main Job Responsibilities:
  • Assist with classroom learning activities.
  • Supervise children inside and outside, including, but not limited to, bus duty, recess, field trips, classroom activities, and lunchroom.
  • Assist with the assessment and evaluation of learning.
  • Assist and maintain an orderly learning environment.
  • Assist in providing individual and small-group instruction in learning activities.
  • Assist in communicating with parents.
  • Participate in professional development.
  • Accompany teacher on home visits, as needed.
  • Physical ability to work around small children including sitting, standing, walking, running, and climbing stairs.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. and fulfill all physical requirements of the role.

Kids N Fitness is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace and celebrate diversity and inclusivity. We do not tolerate any kind of discrimination in our hiring processes against any groups protected by federal, state, or local law.
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