Preschool Teacher Aide

Description

This is a non-exempt position responsible for aiding the teacher in child development and center management. The Teacher Assistant is directly responsible to the teacher.

• a. Assists the teacher in planning, executing, and evaluating developmental experiences of the children in the classroom, mealtimes, and on the playground.
• b. Assists the teacher in managing the operation of the center.
• c. Assists in the supervision of Head Start children.
• d. Reinforces positive behavior by maintaining consistent limits and realistic expectations, anticipating problems, redirecting children, and promoting each child’s self-esteem.
• e. Assists parents and volunteers as needed and as directed by the teacher.
• f. Assists in maintaining records at the center as directed by the teacher.
• g. Performs janitorial duties at the center as directed by the teacher.
• h. May assist the lead teacher in engaging in visits at the homes of the children.
• i. May publicize and explain the Head Start Program to citizens, organizations, and agencies in the county in which the center is located as directed by the teacher.
• j. Engages in a variety of specific tasks related to child development as directed by the teacher.
• k. Performs all duties in the spirit of cooperation and teamwork with other staff members.
• l. Participates in workshops, in-service training opportunities, and formal education classes as planned and considered applicable to the execution of work duties.
• m. Required to obtain/maintain a (CDA) Child Development Associate Certificate.
• n. Required to maintain current health requirements of an annual T.B. Tine and physical.
• o. Needs to be able to lift 40 - 50 pounds.
• p. Performs other duties related to center activities as may be assigned by the teacher.

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent; some college preferred
• Must be able to pass a criminal background screening successfully
• Must obtain a CDA credential within two (2) years from the date of hire
• Ability to be sensitive and responsive to diversity
• Ability to work independently and in partnership with team members
• Ability to set limits and boundaries that maintain the helping role of a practitioner and assist others with setting healthy boundaries
• Ability to communicate effectively with youth, co-workers, volunteers, and supervisor
• Seek to improve knowledge, skills, and abilities in related service areas
• Must have the necessary skills to communicate to children and families with kindness and respect; manage time appropriately; work as a team with adults; receive instructional direction from the teacher; practice positive behavior support techniques effectively; utilize curriculum with fidelity; assist with assessments and electronic recordkeeping