Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, & Secondary School

What They Do

Assist a preschool, elementary, middle, or secondary school teacher with instructional duties. Serve in a position for which a teacher has primary responsibility for the design and implementation of educational programs and services.

Typical Tasks

• Supervise students in classrooms, halls, cafeterias, school yards, and gymnasiums, or on field trips.
• Tutor and assist children individually or in small groups to help them master assignments and to reinforce learning concepts presented by teachers.
• Enforce administration policies and rules governing students.
• Teach social skills to students.
• Instruct and monitor students in the use and care of equipment and materials to prevent injuries and damage.

Key Skills

Work Activities

• Assisting and Caring for Others
• Thinking Creatively
• Getting Information
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
• Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others