Orange Tree Christian Preschool (TK Intern)At — Orange Tree Christian Preschool

The Pre-K Classroom Intern will support the teaching team by observing classroom routines, assisting with daily activities, and learning about early childhood education practices in a Christian preschool environment. Under the guidance of the lead teacher, the intern will:

• Observe instructional methods, classroom management, and child development strategies.
• Assist with preparing materials, organizing activities, and supporting group projects.
• Help maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming classroom environment.
• Interact with children in a positive and encouraging manner, reinforcing developmental goals.
• Reflect on experiences and share observations with the lead teacher for professional growth.

This role is designed as a learning experience, providing hands-on exposure to child development, teaching methods, and the operations of a faith-based preschool program.

Tasks:

The Pre-K Classroom Intern will perform the following duties under the supervision of the lead teacher to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes:

• Classroom Observation & Documentation – Observe teacher-led lessons, classroom management strategies, and child behavior; take notes to analyze developmental milestones and learning approaches.
• Instructional Support – Assist in preparing and organizing classroom materials, learning centers, and activity supplies to support planned curriculum.
• Student Engagement – Interact with children during structured and unstructured activities to practice communication, guidance, and positive reinforcement strategies.
• Activity Facilitation – Under teacher guidance, lead small group activities or one-on-one interactions that reinforce academic, social, and spiritual learning goals.
• Classroom Environment Maintenance – Help maintain a safe, clean, and supportive classroom setting that fosters learning and development.
• Reflective Practice – Participate in weekly mentor meetings and maintain a reflection log that connects classroom experiences to early childhood education theory and professional practice.
• Professional Collaboration – Attend staff check-ins or planning discussions when appropriate to gain insight into teamwork, curriculum planning, and parent communication.

These tasks are designed to provide professional, pre-professional, and skill-based experiences that align with early childhood education career preparation while maintaining appropriate supervision and support.

Training:

To support the intern in achieving the learning outcomes, the following training will be provided during the placement:

• General Orientation (Mandatory): Introduction to Orange Tree Christian Preschool’s mission, policies, classroom routines, and safety procedures.
• Job Shadowing: Interns will observe lead teachers in the Pre-K classroom to gain insight into instructional strategies, classroom management, and child development practices.
• Weekly One-on-One Mentor Meetings: Scheduled check-ins with the lead teacher or supervisor to reflect on experiences, ask questions, and set weekly learning goals.
• Hands-On Skills Training: Opportunities to assist with lesson preparation, activity facilitation, and classroom organization under teacher guidance.
• Contextualized Task Overview: Teachers will provide background and purpose for assigned tasks, helping interns connect daily responsibilities to developmental and educational goals.
• Progress Reflection: Interns will be encouraged to keep notes or journals on observations and experiences, which will be reviewed during mentor meetings to support growth and understanding.
• This combination of structured orientation, direct observation, and guided practice ensures the intern is well-supported while gaining meaningful professional experience in early childhood education.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the academic internship, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of early childhood development by observing and identifying age-appropriate learning strategies and behaviors in a preschool classroom.
• Apply classroom management techniques under teacher supervision to support a positive, structured, and safe learning environment.
• Assist in lesson preparation and activity facilitation, showing the ability to adapt materials and approaches to meet diverse developmental needs.
• Engage with children in a supportive and encouraging manner, fostering social, emotional, and spiritual growth.
• Reflect on professional practices in early childhood education and articulate how these experiences connect to academic learning and future career goals.