Aftercare Teacher

About the Role

Garden Preschool Cooperative (GPC), a parent-run, play-based preschool serving Jersey City families since 1995, is hiring a part-time Aftercare Teacher for the 2026–2027 school year. You'll lead our end-of-day program for a mixed-age group of toddlers through Kindergarten-age children, creating a warm, engaging space where kids can wind down, play, and connect after their school day. This role works closely with our co-head teachers and is a great fit for someone who thrives in a small, collaborative, community-oriented school.

What You'll Do

• Plan and lead engaging, age-appropriate activities in collaboration with GPC's co-head teachers, aligned with the school's curriculum
• Prepare classroom space and materials for aftercare sessions
• Use creative, hands-on materials to extend learning beyond the school day
• Foster a classroom culture of mutual respect through positive, consistent communication and behavior guidance
• Support children's positive social interactions and conflict resolution
• Maintain the safety and well-being of all children at all times
• Communicate proactively with aftercare families regarding pickup, daily updates, and any concerns
• Close, secure, and organize the classroom and school building nightly
• Take on additional responsibilities as needed to support the program

What We're Looking For

• 2+ years of experience in a licensed early childhood setting, or equivalent classroom experience
• Experience working with mixed-age groups (toddler through kindergarten) in a team-teaching environment
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education preferred, though not required with equivalent experience
• Genuine warmth toward children and a drive to make a positive impact every day
• Strong relationship-building skills with children, families, and colleagues
• A friendly, approachable, and professional demeanor
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to stay calm and composed under pressure
• Reliability and a strong sense of accountability — you're someone this community can count on
• Current (or willingness to obtain) CPR/First Aid certification, background check, and fingerprinting clearance as required by NJ childcare licensing

Why GPC

At GPC, you'll join a close-knit, mission-driven community where families are genuinely invested in the classroom, not just dropping off and picking up. You'll have real input into how the aftercare program runs, work alongside experienced co-head teachers, and be part of a Reggio Emilia-inspired, play-based approach to early childhood education.

To Apply

Please send a resume and a brief cover letter about your experience with early childhood or mixed-age classrooms to copresidents@gardenpreschoolcoop.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.