Preschool Assistant Teacher

Summary Serenity Islamic School is seeking a warm, nurturing, and dedicated Preschool Assistant Teacher to join our growing school community in Rockaway, NJ. We are looking for an educator who is passionate about early childhood education, values child-centered learning, and is committed to creating a positive and engaging classroom environment rooted in Islamic values. In this role, you will work alongside our Lead Teacher to support a calm, joyful classroom and help nurture each child's growth in faith, character, and learning. Duties Classroom Support Assist the Lead Teacher in carrying out daily routines, lessons, and activities Help create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom atmosphere Model Islamic manners and character throughout the day Step in to lead small groups, transitions, or full-group activities as directed Curriculum & Learning Support the implementation of Creative Curriculum activities and play-based learning Help incorporate age-appropriate Islamic values, character lessons, and faith-based learning into daily routines Prepare materials and set up learning centers under the Lead Teacher's direction Engage with children during activities to extend learning through conversation and play Child Development & Guidance Support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development Use positive behavior guidance and redirection rooted in patience, kindness, and Islamic principles Encourage children's independence, problem-solving, and self-help skills Observe children and share notable moments or concerns with the Lead Teacher Classroom Environment Help maintain a clean, organized, and inviting classroom Assist with setup, cleanup, and organization of materials before and after activities Support snack, mealtime, restroom routines, and rest time Family Communication Maintain professionalism in all interactions with families Health & Safety Directly supervise children at all times to ensure their safety Follow all licensing, health, sanitation, and safety regulations Support attendance and incident documentation as needed Professional Responsibilities Arrive on time and prepared for the school day Attend staff meetings and trainings Pursue ongoing growth in early childhood education Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times Requirements High school diploma or equivalent Genuine love for working with young children Patience, warmth, and a calm presence Ability to follow direction, take initiative, and work collaboratively with a Lead Teacher Strong verbal communication skills with children, families, and colleagues Comfort with and respect for an Islamic learning environment Ability to pass a background check and fingerprinting per NJ licensing requirements Current (or willingness to obtain) CPR and First Aid certification Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs, sit on the floor, and remain active with young children throughout the day Nice To Haves Some college coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (or CDA credential) Prior experience in a preschool, daycare, or early childhood classroom Familiarity with play-based or Reggio-inspired learning Familiarity with Brightwheel or similar parent communication platforms Practicing Muslim with ability to model Islamic manners and support faith-based learning Basic Arabic or Quran knowledge appropriate for early childhood instruction Benefits 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