Associate Teacher

Position Type: YCS - Perry Early Learning Center/ Associate Teacher

Position Title: Associate Teacher – Early Childhood
Reports To: Classroom Teacher – Principal
Hourly Rate: $17.24

The Associate Teacher (Early Childhood) works as part of a teaching team to assist the Classroom Teacher in the preparation, planning and execution of the daily operations of the District's Pre‑kindergarten classroom (Head Start and GSRP). Responsibilities include building relationships with families, supporting transportation of children when needed, assuming the Classroom Teacher role during planning and occasional absences, and implementing the Head Start and GSRP Performance Standards.

The Associate Teacher promotes parent involvement and may be assigned additional duties based on program needs.

• Commits to ongoing learning and the development of the craft of teaching for self; encourages, supports and mentors ongoing learning in students.
• Commits to high expectations for students, developing a vision of success for each student and moving that student toward its achievement.
• Commits to positive relationships and communication, promoting and modeling a safe and supportive learning culture for all.
• Commits to honoring all students, embracing their community and diversity.
• Commits to establishing a learning environment that is accountable for effective instruction, assessment and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Commits to using community resources to improve instruction.
• Commits to collegiality and professionalism of self and staff.

• Possession of a Bachelor's or Associate's Degree in Early Childhood or Child Development preferred. A current CDA credential with appropriate experience may be acceptable in some circumstances. Some exceptions can be made for an individual with an existing 120‑hour CDA equivalency.
• Minimum of two years early childhood classroom experience – an asset.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) – a plus.
• Extensive knowledge and skills in the field of early childhood development.
• Must be willing and able to obtain and maintain Basic First Aid and CPR Certification.
• Appropriate Early Childhood Educational experience preferred.
• Knowledge of working with preschool children.
• Knowledge of the purpose of the Head Start/Great Start Readiness Programs.
• Knowledge of rules and regulations related to Department of Transportation for times when supporting child transportation.
• Knowledge of local resources, customs and language helpful.
• Alternatives to the above qualifications may be considered by the Board of Education.

• Assists with delivery of Head Start and GSRP services as defined by the relevant performance standards.
• Assists in establishing a safe, healthy, stimulating and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children two and a half to five years old with all abilities.
• Fosters self‑esteem, self‑direction, self‑control and school readiness skills with preschool children using positive methods.
• Complies with program curriculum, supplemental curriculum, State of Michigan licensing, and Head Start and GSRP standards.
• Assists in screening, observing and assessing children's development, analyzing data, and making specific plans or referrals.
• Responsible for understanding Head Start Performance Standards, GSRP Implementation Standards and local child‑care licensing regulations.
• Attends all required workshops and meetings.
• Assists in designing daily classroom plans incorporating curriculum and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Provides direction to parents, volunteers and interns through communication, mentoring and modeling.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with families to understand child development and the importance of early education, nutrition and health.
• Provides parents with positive examples for appropriate family activities.
• Works in a diverse environment with children and families of various developmental levels and needs.
• Assists the Teacher in meeting program needs for parent/family involvement.
• Involves parents/families in educational activities to emphasize their role.
• Assists other…