Preschool Aid/Program Lead

Under the direction of the Recreation Supervisor and Preschool Teacher, the PreschoolAid/ Program Lead assists in providing a safe, engaging, and developmentallyappropriate learningenvironment 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 classroomaidand a programming leader. The successful candidate will support daily preschool operations whileassistingin the planning, promotion, and implementation ofadditionalpreschool-age programs, events, camps, and activities offered throughout theDistrict.

Mission Oaks Preschool emphasizes physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth through play-based learning and recreation. The PreschoolAid/ 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 PreschoolAid/ Program Lead works under the general supervision of the Recreation Supervisor and Preschool Teacher.

This position mayassistwith supervising volunteers,supportstaff, and participants during preschool and related youth programs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This position is classified as aseasonal, 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.Additionalduties may be assigned as needed.

Hours and Schedule
• Up to 30 hours per week.
• Preschool hours aregenerally MondaythroughThursdaybetween 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, developmentallyappropriate preschoolcurriculum.
• Engage children through art, music, movement, STEM, sensory activities, dramatic play, outdoor recreation, and storytelling.
• Support daily classroom routines, including transitions, snack time, restroomassistance, and playground supervision.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and welcoming classroom environment.
• Build positive relationships with children while supporting their social and emotional development.
•Assistwith classroom setup, organization, cleaning, and supply management.
• Helpmonitorchildren'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 theDistrict.
• Help ensure preschool-age programs complement one another, cross-promote effectively, and provide clear pathways for families to engage with Mission Oaks Preschool.
•Identifyopportunities fornew programs, partnerships, and community engagement.
•Assistwith marketing and promotional efforts, including outreach events, social media content, community events, and program recruitment activities.
• Serve as an ambassador for preschool programming throughout theDistrict.
• Gather participant feedback andassistwith 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 accidentreportsaccurately and promptly.
• Attend staff meetings,trainings, and professional development opportunities.
•Maintainprofessional 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 programsand eventsis 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 clearancerequiredprior 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 isrequired.

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 tomonitoractivities and communicate effectively.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient tooperateoffice 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 area team player,a problem solver, andan advocatefor 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.