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Teacher Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Toddler Teacher - Full Time

Madison, AL · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

The Teacher is responsible for working in a team effort with the Teacher Assistant and other program staff to provide infants and toddlers with a safe and healthy learning environment, advancing ...

Infant Teacher - Full Time

Madison, AL · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

The Teacher is responsible for working in a team effort with the Teacher Assistant and other program staff to provide infants and toddlers with a safe and healthy learning environment, advancing ...

Assistant Toddler Teacher

AL · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Key Responsibilities * Assist the Lead Teacher with daily classroom activities and lesson implementation . * Support children in social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development . * Help ...

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Teacher Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$8

$14

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How much do teacher assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for teacher assistant in Decatur, AL is $14.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $16.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Teacher Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Teacher Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of educational practices, classroom management, and child development, often supported by an associate degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with learning management systems, educational software, and basic administrative tools is commonly expected. Strong communication, patience, and teamwork skills help Teacher Assistants effectively support students and collaborate with lead teachers. These abilities are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and ensuring smooth classroom operations.

What is the difference between Teacher Assistant vs Paraprofessional?

AspectTeacher AssistantParaprofessional
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar certification requirements
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, schools, educational settingsClassrooms, special education, support roles in schools
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, educational institutionsPublic schools, special education programs, educational support services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesClarifying job duties, certifications, and differences

Both Teacher Assistants and Paraprofessionals support classroom activities and work closely with teachers and students. While their roles often overlap, Paraprofessionals may have additional responsibilities in special education or specific support functions. Both positions typically require similar educational credentials and are employed in educational settings, making them closely related roles in the education industry.

What are the most common challenges Teacher Assistants face when supporting diverse classrooms, and how can they effectively address them?

Teacher Assistants often work with students from various backgrounds and abilities, which can present challenges such as language barriers, differing learning styles, and behavioral issues. To address these challenges, it's important to collaborate closely with the lead teacher, adapt instructional materials, and use effective communication strategies. Being proactive in seeking professional development opportunities and fostering a supportive classroom environment also helps Teacher Assistants meet the diverse needs of students successfully.

What Do Teacher Assistants Do?

In schools across the country, teacher assistants—also called paraprofessional educators—are an integral part of classroom culture. Teacher assistants provide help to both teachers and students in a variety of ways. For example, a teacher assistant performs simple administrative tasks, like filing paperwork or putting up bulletin board displays, so that the classroom teacher can focus on planning lessons and grading student work. During classroom instruction, a teacher assistant will circulate the classroom and provide help to students who are off-task or confused. At times, a teacher assistant may be asked to lead a small group of students in extra practice on a given topic.

What degree do you need for a teaching assistant?

A teaching assistant typically needs at least a high school diploma or equivalent; however, many positions prefer or require some college coursework, an associate's degree, or a relevant certification. Requirements can vary by school or district, and additional skills such as patience and communication are important for the role.

What are Teacher Assistants?

Teacher Assistants, also known as paraprofessionals or teacher aides, are educational professionals who support teachers in the classroom. They help with instructional responsibilities, classroom management, and providing individualized attention to students. Teacher Assistants may assist with grading, preparing materials, supervising students, and supporting students with special needs. Their work allows teachers to focus more on instruction and helps create a positive and effective learning environment.

What qualifications do I need for a teaching assistant?

A teaching assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Many schools also value prior experience working with children and strong communication skills. Certification requirements vary by region and school district.

What does an assistant teacher do?

An assistant teacher supports lead teachers by helping to manage classroom activities, supervise students, and assist with lesson preparation. They often work with students individually or in small groups and may require basic knowledge of educational tools and classroom management skills.

What does a teaching assistant do?

A teaching assistant supports teachers by helping with classroom management, supervising students, and assisting with instructional activities. They may prepare materials, provide one-on-one support to students, and help create a positive learning environment, often requiring good communication skills and patience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Teacher jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Teacher jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Teacher Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL? For Teacher Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Teacher Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Teacher Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Teacher Assistant jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Teacher Assistant job openings:
Preschool Teacher - Moulton Head Start - Lawrence County

Preschool Teacher - Moulton Head Start - Lawrence County

Community Action Partnership of North Alabama

Moulton, AL • On-site

$23K - $41K/yr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Description

JOB TITLE:

Teacher

STATUS:

Non-Exempt

REPORTS TO:

Center Director

Bi-Weekly RATE:

AA - $994.06-$1054.31 Bi-weekly

BS - $1494.14-$1584.70 Bi-weekly

BUDGETED DAYS:

165-175

DATE:

November 2025

Position Summary:

The Teacher provides high-quality responsive early education and child development services to all children that promote school readiness, cognitive, social, and emotional growth for success in school. The Teacher works in collaboration with the partnering Teacher or Teacher Assistant, Classroom Partners, Special Needs Aides and Volunteers in the classroom. The Teacher is responsible for performance expectations, child outcomes, compliance and adherence to policies that create a safe and active learning environment for all children in their care. The Teacher should build a nurturing relationship with each child and a mutually beneficial relationship with the parent or guardian of each child. The Teacher is responsible for working cooperatively with Family Engagement Specialists, family members or guardians, Classroom Coaches and other specialists who may be in a role to support child outcomes. The Teacher must act as a professional representative of the agency in the classroom and within the community.

Responsibilities:

Deliver high-quality early education and child development results by implementing and adhering to the following:

  • Collaboration with the partnering Teacher or Teacher Assistant
  • Demonstrate the ability to work with Center Director and Early Learning Coach on professional development and growth
  • Head Start Performance Standards
  • Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework
  • Daycare Licensing Minimum Standards
  • Agency Policies and Procedures and HR Policies
  • Creative Curriculum
  • Alabama Early Learning Guidelines
  • Alabama Standards for Early Learning and Development
  • Identify individual child strengths and areas of needed growth through data collection and analysis.
  • Utilize Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD to complete weekly lesson plans and individual child plans.
  • Regularly and professionally communicate with parents to ensure they are kept informed about their child’s routines, activities and behavior.
  • Engages in the Practice Based Coaching Model
  • Assess Teaching Practices by identifying strengths and areas of needed growth
  • Plan appropriate activities that support the growth and progression of children with IEPs and their families. Including working with the LEA or provider to extend the activities.
Additional Responsibilities:
  • Must review and verify all required documentation prior to submission.
  • Monitor and assure all required documentation is entered correctly into data system.
  • Other duties as may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position or related duties.
Work Relationships and Scope:

* Reports directly to the Center Director. Works closely with the partnering Teacher, or Teacher Assistant, Family Engagement Staff, Children’s Services support staff, children and families.

Measure of Performance:
  • Quality, accuracy, timeliness, reliability, and thoroughness of work performed.
  • Implement high quality Teaching Practices that promote children’s individual development and learning (ongoing)
  • Shows overall growth in the Teaching Pyramid Observation Tool (TPOT) (ongoing)
  • Complete and review required checklists (Monthly)
  • Pull and review ChildPlus reports (Monthly)
  • Shows overall growth in Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) scores by working towards meeting program goal (2x/year)
  • Review all classroom paperwork for accuracy prior to submission or uploading into data system (ongoing)
  • Complete Creative Curriculum Fidelity Teacher Checklist (annually)
  • Individualize with children based on their needs and interests. (ongoing)
  • Assess children’s development and learning (3x/year)
  • Complete classroom level School Readiness Data Analysis (3x/year)
  • Engage in Practice Based Coaching. (ongoing)
  • Accountable for time in time keeping system (daily)
  • Parent Conferences (2 per year, per child)
  • Home Visits (2 per year, per child) *Initial Home Visits completed prior to child’s attendance.
  • Work with Family Engagement Specialist to build relationships with families. (ongoing)
  • Follow program Policies and Procedures. (ongoing)
  • Responsible for securing a Classroom Partner if out of work for any reason. (ongoing)
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Use of effective and appropriate Teaching Practices.
  • Focus on promoting growth and developmental progressions in children.
  • Integrate and analyze child assessment data for planning.
  • Integrate developmentally appropriate learning experiences in all developmental areas.
  • Effectively communicate verbally and in written form with accuracy and acuity.
  • Conduct screens and assessments.
  • Ability to focus on the individuals needs of each child while maintaining order in the classroom.
  • Must understand and be sensitive to the challenges of income eligible families and the consequences that families and children face in low-income communities.
  • Must understand the challenges for families where English is not the primary language used in the home.

Credentials/Experience

Must have a minimum of an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development or related field with 9 hours of concentrated coursework and experience working in a pre-school environment. Teachers are expected to be continuous learners and willing to advance in their professional development path.

Other Characteristics:

  • Obtain and maintain a current age appropriate CPR/First Aid Certification.
  • This position requires a valid driver’s license, proof of vehicle insurance and safe driving record.
  • Proficient user of digital technology.
  • Must pass an ABI/FBI Background check every five years and a drug test at employment and randomly.
Working Conditions:

Results are primarily delivered in a classroom setting conducive to the activities of young children. The Teacher will be required to actively engage children in play, requiring sitting, standing, bending, and minimal lifting of at least 50 pounds. The Teacher is expected to actively engage children in outdoors activities. The Teacher may encounter children with challenging behaviors and consistently utilize appropriate strategies to redirect in addition to working with parents/guardians. The Teacher is required to make two home visits per child each school year. The Teacher will develop supportive and professional relationships with parents and families that encourage mutual trust and respect through communication that creates a welcoming environment supportive of unique cultures, ethnicity and economic backgrounds of the families.

Benefits

All full time employees of the Partnership are provided a very generous and exceptional benefits package which includes full medical coverage managed by PEEHIP (BC/BS Plan). The agency contributes over 10% monthly to the Retirement System of Alabama on behalf of each employee.


Acknowledgement:

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by the employee assigned to this position. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. The employee may be required to perform other job-related duties as requested by the Center Director (CD). All requirements are subject to change over time and to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.