About This RoleAt Serenity Islamic School, we are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Preschool Assistant Teacher to join our community in Rockaway, NJ. As an educator who is passionate about early childhood education and values child-centered learning, you will be part of a team that creates a positive and engaging classroom environment rooted in Islamic values. You will work closely with our Lead Teacher to support a calm and joyful classroom, helping to nurture each child's growth in faith, character, and learning.
What You'll DoSupporting a Positive Classroom Environment
- Assist the Lead Teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging atmosphere that encourages social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development in children
- Participate in planning and implementing daily routines, lessons, and activities that align with Creative Curriculum and Islamic values
- Model Islamic manners and character throughout the day, promoting a positive and respectful classroom culture
- Take on leadership roles in leading small groups, transitions, or full-group activities as directed by the Lead Teacher
Supporting Child Development and Guidance
- Contribute to children's growth and development through positive behavior guidance, redirection, and encouragement of independence, problem-solving, and self-help skills
- Engage with children during activities to extend learning through conversation and play, while observing and sharing notable moments or concerns with the Lead Teacher
- Prepare materials and set up learning centers under the Lead Teacher's direction, ensuring a clean, organized, and inviting classroom environment
- Support snack, mealtime, restroom routines, and rest time, maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all children
Family and Professional Responsibilities
- Maintain professionalism in all interactions with families, responding to their inquiries and concerns in a timely and respectful manner
- Arrive on time and prepared for the school day, attending staff meetings and trainings to stay updated on school policies and procedures
- Pursue ongoing growth in early childhood education, exploring new ideas and strategies to enhance teaching and learning
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times, upholding the school's high standards and expectations
Requirements- Ability to pass a background check and fingerprinting per NJ licensing requirements
- Genuine love for working with young children
- Ability to follow direction, take initiative, and work collaboratively with a Lead Teacher
- Strong verbal communication skills with children, families, and colleagues
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Current (or willingness to obtain) CPR and First Aid certification
- Comfort with and respect for an Islamic learning environment
- Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs, sit on the floor, and remain active with young children throughout the day
- Patience, warmth, and a calm presence
Nice To Haves- Familiarity with play-based or Reggio-inspired learning
- Practicing Muslim with ability to model Islamic manners and support faith-based learning
- Prior experience in a preschool, daycare, or early childhood classroom
- Familiarity with Brightwheel or similar parent communication platforms
- Some college coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (or CDA credential)
- Basic Arabic or Quran knowledge appropriate for early childhood instruction
Benefits- Sick Leave
- Child Care Discount
- Professional Development
- Paid school holidays (following the school calendar)
- Summer break (school-year position)
- Consistent Monday–Friday schedule, 8:30 AM–3:00 PM
- No evening or weekend hours
- Daily prayer accommodations and on-site Masjid (Islamic Center of Morris County)
- Faith-centered work environment
- Paid professional development opportunities and trainings
- Support for continuing education in early childhood
- CPR/First Aid certification provided or reimbursed
- Small, close-knit team with collaborative culture
- Supportive administration and engaged parent community
- Meaningful, mission-driven work