Head Start Teacher Assistant

ABOUT US

At the Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency (CAA), we envision an equitable community where everyone has the tools and resources to be self-sufficient. Our mission is clear: through advocacy, high-quality programs, and strong community partnerships, our dedicated team is breaking down barriers to equity and opportunity while building self-sufficiency across generations. Our values guide us in everything we do: we serve with passion, collaborate as a team, have compassion for others, use our talents to do transformational work, and strive to continuously improve.

The Head Start Teacher Assistant at CHCCAA plays a crucial role in advancing our mission to expand opportunities and build self-sufficiency for our community members. This position supports the Head Start Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. This role involves assisting with the implementation of a developmentally appropriate curriculum, supporting children’s learning and development, and maintaining a positive classroom atmosphere.

The ideal candidate will use their skills to embody our values and contribute to our vision of a thriving, self-sufficient community.

• Assist the Teacher in planning and implementing daily activities and lesson plans that align with Head Start Performance Standards and help children develop socially, emotionally, cognitively and physically, including learning experiences for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate.
• Work with Teacher to establish a welcoming, inclusive and nurturing classroom environment that promotes positive interactions and learning, support cleanliness and safety.
• Incorporate Conscious Discipline strategies into daily interactions to promote social-emotional development and a positive classroom environment.
• Engage with children in activities that promote learning, development and pro‑social behavior.
• Assist in conducting assessments of children’s development and pro‑social behavior; ensure that all reports and documentation are completed accurately, with an on‑time submission.
• Assist in conducting assessments of children’s development and progress and implementing IEPs for all children.
• In conjunction with the teacher, provide engaging home activities/in‑kinds to support learning and development.
• Promote safety practices using Active Supervision indoors and outdoors.
• Observe daily health condition of children and report results to Teacher.
• Communicate effectively with parents and caregivers about their child’s progress and needs.
• Participate in parent‑teacher conferences and home visits as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and licensing regulations, including ADA and child abuse program requirements.
• Attend professional development sessions to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by staff assigned to this job classification. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. Additionally, CAA management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.

Required Education,

Skills and Experience:

Qualifications:

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or a state‑awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential; may be enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree or enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of the time of hire.
• Minimum of two years’ experience working with young children, preferably in a Head Start or early childhood education setting.
• Knowledge of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Knowledge of child discipline and conflict management practices.
• Experience working effectively with diverse families and communities.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Proficiency with computers and…