Preschool Teacher Assistant

About This Role

Who We Are

The Young Mind Community Center (YMCC) is an inclusive preschool and community center for children with and without autism. We aim to set the standard for inclusive early childhood education and redefine early autism intervention. Our innovative and inclusive preschool serves children from 18 months to 5 years old. We are looking for a warm, flexible, and dependable Assistant Teacher to join our inclusive preschool team.

• Transdisciplinary Model:
  The Preschool Teacher Assistant plays an important role in supporting classrooms throughout the program. Rather than being assigned to one classroom, this position provides additional coverage and support wherever it is needed throughout the day. The role may include supporting different classrooms, age groups, teachers, and children based on daily staffing and classroom needs. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with young children, thrives in a team environment, and is comfortable adapting to different classrooms and situations throughout the day.
  
  As part of a team, the classroom assistant teacher works collaboratively and closely with clinical psychologists, school psychologists, board certified behavior analysts, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and registered behavior technicians.
• Coaching Culture:
  
  Fostering the personal growth of our team is central to our mission. Working closely with experts in other disciplines you will learn from specialists in behavior management, child development, language, and motors skills.
• Low Student to Adult Ratio:
  
  We have a 3:1 student to adult ratio. Highly trained registered behavior technicians provide additional classroom support based on children's level of need.
• Family Partnership:
  
  Families are children's first and most important caregivers, teachers, and advocates. To ensure optimal development, we partner with families to enhance parenting knowledge, skills, and self-confidence.
• We pay well, have great benefits, and focus on personal and professional development.
• We work really hard, persevere despite adversity, and choose courage over comfort.
• And, we have a lot of fun!
• We also expect the highest level of performance and dependability from all team members. If you're interested in becoming the best version of yourself, this job is for you.

• Provide classroom coverage and support wherever needed throughout the school day.
• Assist classroom teachers with daily activities, routines, and transitions.
• Engage children in play-based learning experiences.
• Support children's social-emotional, communication, cognitive, physical, and self-help development.
• Help create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment.
• Support children during meals, toileting, transitions, outdoor play, and other daily routines.
• Maintain active supervision of children and ensure their safety and well-being.
• Follow classroom routines, individualized supports, and direction from classroom and clinical leadership.
• Communicate effectively and collaborate with all transdisciplinary team members (behavior analysts, classroom teachers, psychologist, speech pathologist, occupational therapist, parents, and fellow instructors).

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

• A high school diploma or equivalent; OR
• At least 12 months of experience working or volunteering in a child care facility.

Additionally:

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Must have an Arizona Level One IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card or meet the requirements to obtain one.
• Must be able to work Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.
• Must be able to work in a physically active preschool environment.
• Previous experience working with young children is preferred but not required.
• Working towards a Bachelor's Degree in a related field is preferred but not required.
• Dependable attendance (absolute requirement)

• 30 paid days off each year
• Excellent health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401K match
• Regular professional development opportunities
• Regular company-sponsored social events