Preschool Aid/Program Lead

Under the direction of the Recreation Supervisor and Preschool Teacher, the Preschool Aid / Program Lead assists in providing a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children ages 3-5 while helping expand and strengthen preschool-age programming throughout the Mission Oaks Recreation and Park District.

This position serves as both a classroom aid and a programming leader. The successful candidate will support daily preschool operations while assisting in the planning, promotion, and implementation of additional preschool-age programs, events, camps, and activities offered throughout the District .

Mission Oaks Preschool emphasizes physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth through play-based learning and recreation. The Preschool Aid / Program Lead helps create positive experiences for children and families while contributing to a larger vision that connects all preschool-age programs under one unified programming umbrella. These programs work together to provide consistent, high-quality experiences, encourage family engagement, and create pathways that introduce and connect families to the Mission Oaks Preschool program.

The ideal candidate is a positive role model, creative thinker, and enthusiastic team member who brings energy, warmth, and excitement wherever they go. They are the type of person who lights up a room, builds meaningful relationships with families, and is passionate about creating exceptional experiences for young children.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

The Preschool Aid / Program Lead works under the general supervision of the Recreation Supervisor and Preschool Teacher.

This position may assist with supervising volunteers, support staff, and participants during preschool and related youth programs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This position is classified as a seasonal, part-time , at -will position . Appointments are made on an annual basis and are subject to program enrollment, budget availability, operational needs, and satisfactory job performance. The preschool follows an annual program calendar; therefore, employees in this classification are not scheduled to work during district holidays, school holidays, winter and spring breaks, or other scheduled program closures. The following duties are representative of the position. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

Hours and Schedule

• Up to 30 hours per week.
• Preschool hours are generally Monday through Thursday between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
• Additional hours may include afternoons, evenings, weekends, special events , trainings, and seasonal programs.

Classroom Responsibilities

• Assist the Preschool Teacher in implementing a play-based, developmentally appropriate preschool curriculum.
• Engage children through art, music, movement, STEM, sensory activities, dramatic play, outdoor recreation, and storytelling.
• Support daily classroom routines, including transitions, snack time, restroom assistance , and playground supervision.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and welcoming classroom environment.
• Build positive relationships with children while supporting their social and emotional development.
• Assist with classroom setup, organization, cleaning, and supply management.
• Help monitor children's safety and well-being at all times.
• Communicate professionally and positively with families, staff, and community members.

Program Lead Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning, development, and implementation of preschool-age recreation programs, camps, special events , enrichment classes, and family activities.
• Collaborate with the Recreation Supervisor to develop a cohesive vision for preschool-age programming throughout the District .
• Help ensure preschool-age programs complement one another, cross-promote effectively, and provide clear pathways for families to engage with Mission Oaks Preschool.
• Identify opportunities for new programs , partnerships, and community engagement.
• Assist with marketing and promotional efforts, including outreach events, social media content, community events, and program recruitment activities.
• Serve as an ambassador for preschool programming throughout the District .
• Gather participant feedback and assist with evaluating program effectiveness and community needs.
• Support registration goals through excellent customer service and family engagement.

General Responsibilities

• Promote and follow all safety policies and procedures.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and provide First Aid/CPR as needed.
• Complete incident and accident reports accurately and promptly.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings , and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain professional standards, confidentiality, and positive working relationships.
• Perform administrative, clerical, and customer service duties as assigned.
• Provide exceptional customer service to participants, families, and community members.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge of

• Child development principles and age-appropriate recreational activities.
• Preschool classroom practices and behavior management techniques.
• Recreation program planning and implementation.
• Customer service and public interaction.
• Basic computer applications and communication tools.

Ability to

• Build positive relationships with children, families, coworkers, and community members.
• Create a fun, welcoming, and engaging environment.
• Lead activities with enthusiasm and confidence.
• Work independently while exercising sound judgment.
• Organize and manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of at least 6-12 units of Early Childhood Education coursework preferred.

Experience

• One year of experience working with children in preschool, childcare, recreation, camps, education, or a related setting preferred.
• Experience planning, coordinating, or leading youth programs and events is highly desirable.

Licenses and Certifications

• Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications required or ability to obtain within established timelines.
• Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License is preferred.

Other Requirements

• Successful completion of fingerprinting and background check.
• TB clearance required prior to employment.
• Reliable transportation to District facilities and program locations.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor recreation environments. Exposure to varying weather conditions, including sun, heat, wind, rain, and cold, may occur. Frequent interaction with children, parents, and the public is required .

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, sit on the floor, and actively participate in children's activities for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies involving children.
• Vision, hearing, and speech sufficient to monitor activities and communicate effectively.
• Manual dexterity sufficient to operate office equipment, prepare activities, and supervise participants.

MISSION OAKS IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are looking for someone who brings positivity, creativity, and energy to everything they do. The ideal candidate is passionate about early childhood recreation, enjoys building connections with families, and believes every interaction is an opportunity to create a memorable experience. They are a team player , a problem solver , and an advocate for high-quality preschool programming.

If you are the kind of person who can walk into a room and make it brighter, inspire excitement in children, and help bring innovative ideas to life, we encourage you to apply.