Head Start Teacher Assistant

We are seeking a dedicated and caring professional to support the lead teacher in creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children. They will help implement educational activities, provide attentive supervision in the classroom and on the playground, and foster children's growth and well-being.

The Teacher Assistant may step into lead teacher responsibilities as needed, including serving as Site Director for licensing compliance during teacher absences.

• Help create and maintain a safe, organized, and engaging learning environment for preschool children.
• Support the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate activities that promote each child's cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth.
• Observe and document children's progress, assist with assessments, and maintain required records and reports.
• Build positive relationships with families through ongoing communication, parent conferences, home visits, and family engagement opportunities.
• Encourage family and community involvement by promoting volunteerism and support for program initiatives, including in-kind contributions.
• Participate in staff meetings, required training, and other professional responsibilities while adhering to agency policies and procedures.
• Maintain clean, safe, and welcoming indoor and outdoor learning environments.
• Assume lead teacher or supervisory responsibilities, including oversight of center staff, as needed during the teacher's absence.

What We’re Looking For

• Passion for working with young children and families.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and meet program requirements.
• Dedication to creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Join our team and help children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success!

Education Requirements

• CDA or degree in ECE preferred
• High School Diploma or GED required AND must be enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree or, are enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of the time of hire to adhere to the Head Start Performance Standards requirements.

Experience Requirements

• Experience working with preschool children required

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Must obtain a pre-employment physical, including a screen for communicable diseases.
• Must agree to pre-employment background check
• Must complete First Aid and CPR training and keep updated.
• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Tuition Assistance

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority, Inc. Head Start / Early Head Start Program serves more than 700 children ages 0-5 years in eight counties in East TN:
Blount, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Monroe, Sevier and Union. Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities. They also receive support to access free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing outdoors in a safe setting. Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities.

Our employees have access to:

Up to 14 paid holidays per year

Sick leave and Personal time

Option to participate in State of Tennessee 401(k) savings plan

Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System

Group Health Insurance partially paid by the agency with other insurance products available.

Minimum Education :
High School or Equivalent