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Teacher Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Auxiliary Teacher - K-2

Decatur, AL · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

Provide instructional reinforcement for individual students or small groups of students * Assist teacher with classroom management and general supervision of the class * Help with administrative ...

Preschool Teacher

Madison, AL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

We are looking for a preschool teacher committed to helping children learn, play, grow, and thrive and providing the tools they need to succeed academically and emotionally. If you are a caring and ...

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Teacher Preschool

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$2.2K - $3.6K/mo

We are expanding and seeking 2 new Preschool Teachers to join our team! This individual will plan and present age-appropriate activities for children 6 weeks to 22 months Responsibilities: * Instruct ...

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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 17, 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:
26/27 School Year: Math Teacher: Geometry

26/27 School Year: Math Teacher: Geometry

Maury County Public Schools

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$50K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Maury County Public Schools rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

443rd of 549 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description


Job Overview: Provide students with appropriate learning activities and experiences designed to fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Enable students to develop competencies and skills to function successfully in society.


Job Functions

  • Plans and administers instructional programs and conducts classroom operations in compliance with directives from School Administration, Board of Education policy, and state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Responsible for the overall instruction, operation, management, and supervision of the classroom.
  • Demonstrates a variety of methods required to perform classroom and/or subject specific assignments, providing an effective program that addresses individual student requirements.
  • Administers and develops subject specific assessments to evaluate student competency levels and/or develops individual learning plans to improve student's academic success in all courses of study.
  • Assesses student progress in relation to learning targets, objectives, and expectations; and monitors students in a variety of education environments to provide a safe and positive learning environment.
  • Instructs and counsels students to enhance and improve academic performance, appropriate behavior, problem solving skills and techniques, health, and a variety of personal issues.
  • Manages student behavior for the purpose of providing a safe and optimal learning environment.
  • Collaborates with instructional staff, other school personnel, parents, and consults a variety of community resources for the purpose of supporting the school improvement plan and improving the overall quality of student outcomes and achieving established classroom objectives.
  • Supports and assists other classroom teachers with the implementation of established curriculum and/or individual student plans.
  • Directs assistant teachers, student teachers, instructional assistants, volunteers and/or student workers for the purpose of administering an effective classroom program and addressing the needs of individual students.
  • Advises parents and/or legal guardians of student progress for the purpose of communicating expectations, student's achievements, developing methods for improvement, and/or reinforcing classroom goals in the home environment.
  • Responds to inquiries from a variety of sources (teachers, parents, students, administrators, central office staff, etc.) for the purpose of providing information and/or direction, communicating standards, and resolving issues.
  • Gathers information and prepares a variety of written materials (e.g. grades, lesson plans following scope and sequence, correspondence with parents and students, examinations and quizzes, attendance, anecdotal records, etc.) for the purpose of documenting student progress and maintaining mandated requirements.
  • Participates in a variety of meetings and professional development activities.
  • Addresses and reports incidents (e.g. fights, suspected child abuse, suspected substance abuse, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining personal safety of students, providing a positive learning environment, and adhering to state law and Board policies.
  • Responds to emergency situations for the purpose of resolving safety concerns immediately.