Episcopal School of Nashville Assistant Teacher – First Grade Nashville, TN · Full time Company website

Apply for Assistant Teacher – First Grade

Assistant Teachers at ESN work closely with lead teachers and staff to provide instructional and emotional support, model respectful behavior, and help create a joyful and engaging classroom experience. This position also includes leading or supporting the school’s aftercare program, helping students transition from the school day to a structured and caring after-school environment. This role requires flexibility, patience, and a commitment to ESN’s Portrait of a Graduate values: Respectful, Responsible, Creative, Inclusive, Critical Thinkers, and Lifelong Learners.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Classroom Support & Instruction

• Assist the Lead Teacher with instruction, preparation of materials, and classroom management.
• Support individual students or small groups during lessons, centers, and activities.
• Reinforce classroom routines, expectations, and social-emotional learning goals.
• Help prepare the classroom environment for daily learning, including organizing materials and tidying shared spaces.
• Assist in assessing student work and maintaining documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher.

Student Development & Care

• Build strong, respectful relationships with students and help foster a sense of community and belonging.
• Support students’ social, emotional, and behavioral growth through gentle guidance and modeling.
• Respond to student needs with care, empathy, and consistency.
• Supervise students in various settings, including classroom, hallways, playground, lunch, and transitions.

Aftercare Program Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for students during aftercare hours.
• Plan and supervise age-appropriate activities such as games, crafts, outdoor play, and homework help.
• Ensure student safety and accountability during check-in, snack, and dismissal.
• Communicate effectively with families and school staff regarding student needs, incidents, or scheduling updates.

Professionalism & Collaboration

• Work in partnership with the Lead Teacher, student support team, and administration.
• Attend staff meetings and professional development sessions as required.
• Demonstrate flexibility, reliability, and a willingness to support school-wide initiatives and events.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Qualifications & Skills

• Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in education or a related field (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
• Prior experience working with elementary-aged children in a school or childcare setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education.
• Ability to take direction while also showing initiative and responsibility.
• Enthusiasm for working with young children and supporting their growth.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and engage actively with children throughout the school day.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and supervise outdoor play in various weather conditions.

Additional Information

This is a full-time, 10-month position reporting to the Director of Student and Faculty Engagement. Regular hours include school day support and aftercare responsibilities until approximately 5:30 PM. Salary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience.

Episcopal School of Nashville is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds.