DoWEA Americas Region Office
A rewarding opportunity awaits at West Point Elementary School for someone who loves working with young children and wants to make a difference in their early education. The Department of Defense Education Activity is seeking an Educational Aide to join their prekindergarten program in the Mid Atlantic District. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys hands on classroom support, from preparing instructional materials to assisting with personal care routines like feeding and toileting. You will not just help the teacher; you will be a vital part of each child’s daily learning journey. If you are patient, caring, and ready to work in a classroom environment that values structure and compassion, this educational aide job deserves your attention. You will participate in home visits and parent teacher conferences, ensuring continuity of learning even when the lead teacher is absent.
Company Overview
The employer is the Department of Defense Education Activity, specifically serving the military community at West Point, New York. This agency operates schools for children of US military families and Department of Defense civilians. The Mid Atlantic District covers several states, and West Point Elementary is one of its flagship schools. The work environment is a standard classroom setting, with all the energy and unpredictability that young children bring. The agency values patience, teamwork, and a commitment to student development. This position is not covered by a bargaining unit, meaning you will have a direct employment relationship without union representation. The role is full time, onsite, and requires U.S. citizenship.
Key Responsibilities
Participate in home visits, parent teacher conferences, and other meetings to build strong family school connections
Ensure continuity of the educational program during the teacher’s absence by following lesson plans and maintaining routines
Monitor students throughout the school day, including during classroom activities, meals, outdoor play, and transitions
Maintain a clean and organized learning environment by wiping surfaces, arranging materials, and reporting safety hazards
Prepare instructional materials such as flashcards, art supplies, and worksheets to support daily lessons
Assist with teaching personal care routines including feeding, toileting, and personal hygiene for young learners
Operate instructional equipment and technology devices such as tablets, printers, and educational software
Accompany and supervise students on field trips, ensuring safety and engagement at all times
Qualifications
U.S. citizenship is required. No formal degree is specified, but a high school diploma or equivalent is typically expected. Previous experience working with preschool or elementary aged children in a classroom, daycare, or similar setting is highly valued. You must be comfortable assisting with personal care tasks including toileting and feeding. Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to thirty pounds is necessary. Patience, strong communication skills, and a genuine love for young children are essential. A background investigation with childcare checks will be required. Male applicants born after December 31, 1959 must register with the Selective Service. Two year trial period may apply.
Benefits and Perks
This full time position pays USD 24.57 per hour, which is competitive for educational aide roles in the West Point area. Based on a typical school year schedule of about thirty five hours per bi weekly pay period, annual earnings range from approximately USD 45,000 to USD 50,000. You receive direct deposit of pay. Federal benefits may include health insurance, retirement savings plans, paid time off, and holidays depending on appointment type. You also gain the satisfaction of serving military families and contributing to the education of their children.
How to Apply
To apply for this Educational Aide position, visit USAJobs.gov and search for the announcement number listed in the original posting. Submit your resume and any required transcripts or certifications. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. If this role matches where you want to take your career, do not wait. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
