Job Details

Teacher Assistant

We are looking for energetic, self-motivated team players who don't mind working in a fast-paced environment with an exceptional Love for children. Preferably candidates with CDA, or currently enrolled in the CDA (Childcare Development Associates)

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND KEY TASKS

Child Development

• Observe, assess and document each assigned child's health, skills, behavior, growth and development.
• Provide opportunities for children to develop positive self-images and experience success.
• As assigned, develop an individualized educational strength plan for children.
• Participate in Family/Child Reviews.
• Identify any developmental concerns regarding the children and follow agency protocol.

Curriculum

• In conjunction with the Teacher, plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities that will promote the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of each child.
• In conjunction with the Teacher, develop lesson plans with goals, objectives, activities and outcomes for children.

Classroom Environment

• Assume responsibility for the management of the classroom during the Lead Teacher's absence.
• In conjunction with the Teacher maintain a classroom environment which includes positive guidance techniques, that meets state and local licensing regulations, accreditation standards, Head Start Program Performance Standards
• Ensure all children are under appropriate supervision at all times.
• In the absence of the Lead Teacher, delegate child development responsibilities as needed.

Parent Involvement

• As assigned by the Lead Teacher, schedule and conduct Parent/Staff conferences.
• In conjunction with the Lead Teacher, encourage parent participation in the program.
• Develop effective partnerships with parents.

Administration

• In conjunction with the Lead Teacher, develop and maintain confidential educational information for each child and ensure all confidential information is protected.
• Accurately complete all required program documentation and submit in a timely manner to the Lead Teacher.
• Complete daily attendance and meal participation reports and submit to the Lead Teacher.

Other

• Follow all mandates of federal regulations, state and local licensing, accreditation standards and Head Start Program Performance Standards,
• Attend all required meetings and trainings.
• Perform other duties as assigned, within the scope of the job description.

. Requirements:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Associate's degree or Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development (CD), OR two-year equivalent of an Associate's degree with a minimum of 18 semester hours of credit in ECE or CD.

ADDITIONAL JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Clearance of background check.
• CPR/FIRST AID certified or willing to pursue certification
• Must be able to physically interact with children, including talk, hear, sit, stand, walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and lift and or move items of up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to manually operate and use a computer and other office equipment.
• Must be able to clearly communicate with parents, children, and staff

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Knowledge of and ability to implement child development and early childhood principles, practices and curriculum for the specific age group (0-3 or 3-5).
• Ability to remain abreast of ongoing developments in the childcare field.
• Ability to work within an interdisciplinary team as a cooperative and supportive team member.
• Ability and willingness to work in a program located in a high-risk, low-income community.
• Ability to communicate and work with diverse families and professionals.
• Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential information and materials.
• Ability to obtain First Aid and CPR certification.
• Ability to communicate and respond in a manner that demonstrates respect and concern.
• Ability to remain abreast of developments in the childcare field to enhance professional growth and development