Teacher Assistant / Activity Leader About Big Ideas Educational Services Big Ideas Educational Services provides high-quality after-school and summer programming in a safe, structured, and engaging environment. Our programs are designed to support the whole child by integrating academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, physical fitness, STEM exploration, and recreational activities. Through intentional, standards-aligned programming, students strengthen their academic skills, build positive relationships with peers and adults, develop confidence, and participate in meaningful learning experiences beyond the traditional school day. We are committed to creating positive, engaging, and high-quality out-of-school experiences that help every child discover their potential and achieve success in school and in life. Position Summary The Teacher Assistant / Activity Leader plays an essential role in supporting the daily operation of the program by assisting certified teachers, supervising students, preparing instructional materials, and creating a safe, engaging learning environment. This position supports academic instruction while also leading physical fitness activities, social-emotional learning experiences, recreational games, homework assistance, snack distribution, and daily site operations. The Teacher Assistant serves as a positive role model who helps ensure students remain safe, engaged, and excited to learn throughout the program day. Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Assist certified teachers with daily instruction, classroom management, and small-group learning activities. * Prepare lesson materials, classroom resources, bulletin boards, demonstrations, and student supplies. * Provide homework and academic support to students during designated learning periods. * Lead physical fitness and recreational activities that promote healthy lifestyles and teamwork. * Reinforce social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies embedded throughout daily programming. * Maintain direct supervision of students at all times to ensure a safe and structured environment. * Support positive student behavior using appropriate redirection and encouragement. * Assist with indoor and outdoor activities, including games, STEM projects, arts, and enrichment experiences. * Distribute snacks while following all health and safety procedures. * Assist with daily site setup and breakdown, including organizing materials and preparing activity spaces. * Follow daily schedules and support smooth transitions between activities. * Collaborate with site leadership and instructional staff to ensure a positive experience for all students. * Communicate professionally with parents, guardians, and school staff when appropriate. * Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions. * Follow all Big Ideas policies, procedures, and chain of command as outlined in the Employee Handbook. * Perform other duties as assigned to support successful program operations. Minimum Qualifications * High School Diploma or GED required. * Associate's degree or college coursework in Education or a related field preferred, but not required. * 1–2 years of experience working with elementary-aged children in an educational, childcare, recreation, or youth development setting. * Ability to successfully complete a Level II Background Screening. * Ability to successfully complete the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) 40-Hour Introductory Child Care Training (if required for the position). * Strong verbal and written communication skills. * Excellent organizational and time-management skills. * Ability to multitask and work independently while remaining flexible in a fast-paced environment. * Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, reliability, and accountability. * Passion for working with children and helping every student reach their full potential. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities The successful candidate will demonstrate: * A positive, energetic, and student-centered attitude * Excellent classroom and behavior management skills * Strong teamwork and collaboration * Patience, flexibility, and sound judgment * Dependability and punctuality * The ability to build positive relationships with students, families, school staff, and coworkers * Commitment to safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement Working Conditions This position requires the ability to: * Work both indoors and outdoors throughout the program day. * Supervise students during instructional, recreational, and transition periods. * Stand, walk, bend, lift, and actively participate in student activities. * Occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds. Equal Opportunity Employer Big Ideas Educational Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees and students are respected, valued, and provided equal opportunities to succeed. Employment History & Reference Requirements Pursuant to Section 402.302(13), Florida Statutes, all child care personnel are subject to an employment history review as part of the required background screening process. Applicants must provide: * Employment history in chronological order (most recent employer first). * At least one (1) previous employer, even if employment extends beyond the past two years. * If employed by more than three employers within the past two years, all employers during that period must be listed. * Volunteer applicants must provide a minimum of one professional reference.