Teacher Assistant

Description

Support a lead teacher to plan and implement a preschool classroom in compliance with Head Start, GSRP and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) licensing requirements. Follow all agency policies and procedures with minimal direct supervision. Work closely with program staff and community partners to fulfill the objectives of Head Start/GSRP and Community Action Agency.

1.    Support a developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive classroom environment, which fosters the child’s development according to Creative Curriculum NAEYC, HS/GSRP, and CLASS requirements.
2.    Work with a lead teacher in a classroom team in developing a lesson plan that individualizes for children while maintaining a balance of child-initiated and adult-initiated activities, understanding the lead teacher is responsible for accurate implementation.
3.    Work with a lead teacher in a classroom team in assessing children using the assessment system, understanding the lead teacher is responsible for accurate data implementation and ongoing documentation.
4.    Complete required home visits, parent-teacher conferences, and family engagement events as required.
5.    Develop a positive and respectful relationship with children considering developmental levels.  Able to individualize using data from observations and assessments.
6.    Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability during workday and throughout the year due to staff changes and program requirements.  
7.    Participates in team meetings, case conferences, education plans, and IEP meetings.
8.    Understand the confidential nature of the work involved and treat information gained accordingly.
9.    Able to understand and deal with high-risk children who may have trauma histories, behavioral health concerns, or disability service needs.   
10.    Always supervise children, using a calm voice and in a patient and approachable manner; maintain and communicate accurate count throughout the day with team member.
11.    Represent the Agency in a professional and positive manner in all settings including social media.
12.    Work as a team in aiding children in toileting and changing of clothing.
13.    Work as a team in sharing responsibility for cleaning and organizing the classroom.
14.    Sit with children during mealtimes and model good nutritional habits including family style serving, manners and conversation.

Other Hiring Contingencies: Must be able to pass all required background checks.  Show proof of a physical exam signed by a licensed physician that declares, to the best of the physician’s knowledge, the physical capability of the staff member to perform the essential duties required or obtain a physical through CAA’s provider.  A negative TB test within the last 12 months or before starting position.
 

Qualifications

1.    Education: Child Development Associate Certificate, required. Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development preferred.
1.    Work Experience:  One (1) year experience working with children in a preschool classroom setting preferred. Any equivalent combination of education and work experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities for the position may be considered at the discretion of the CEO.
2.    Training: Creative Curriculum and TS Gold experience preferred.
3.    Transportation:  Must have reliable transportation throughout the workday
4.    Basic Skills:  Must be competent in reading, mathematical, verbal, and written communication skills.  Must be computer literate and able to demonstrate computer skills.  Knowledge of community resources, organizational and time management skills; ability to work cooperatively in a team approach.
5.    Problem solving, Decision Making and Interpersonal Skills:  Independent judgement to complete routine tasks.  Establish and maintain positive relationships with people of all economic levels, cultures, and capabilities.  Ability to mediate and diffuse difficult situations.
6.    Physical and Mental Capabilities:  Ability to go into classrooms and home situations and operate in a non-handicap accessible environment in all types of weather.  Must be able to participate in classroom activities, which includes bending, stooping, squatting, walking, lifting (50 pounds, or more at times), walking at a brisk pace, ability to run when necessary, and ability to work in an environment with elevated noise level.