Full Time Assistant Teacher

First Learning•Town of Farmington, NY

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher assists with the general supervision and management of a classroom of children, helping provide a safe, nurturing, stimulating, and educational environment. The role supports children's social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development at their own pace. The Assistant Teacher reports to the Classroom Head Teacher or Teacher and supervises themself.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Commitment to working with young children in a manner that encourages their emotional, social, physical, and intellectual development, as outlined by NAEYC guidelines.
Able to observe, see, hear, and respond to children's needs, emergencies, and conflicts in classrooms, on playgrounds, in other Center areas, and on field trips.
Able to lift approximately 30 pounds from the floor to a waist-high table 25–30 times daily.
Able to reach a child 20–30 feet away within 30 seconds.
Able to crouch to a child's height, maintain eye contact at the child's level, and sit on the floor for extended periods regularly.
Good health, confirmed by a physician's statement, and proof of being free of tuberculosis.
New York State Registry clearance.
Criminal History Fingerprint clearance.
At least 18 years of age.
Knowledge of New York State child care regulations.
Effective and tactful oral and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain positive relationships with children, co-workers, and parents.
Ability to use sound judgment and tact and work as a team member.
Flexibility, especially in scheduling and practice, to respond to program needs.
Creativity and patience.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of related work experience with children is preferred.
Increasing knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and age-appropriate activities corresponding with NAEYC guidelines.
Increasing ability to use constructive methods for maintaining group control and individual behaviors.

Responsibilities

Follow First Learning Child Care policies and procedures and New York State Office of Children and Family Services child care licensing regulations.
Ensure the care, safety, and well-being of classroom children, including attending to personal needs such as diapering, toileting, feeding, washing, dressing, comforting, and preparing children for rest.
Assist with planning and implementing an age-appropriate, open-ended program aligned with National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) philosophy.
Help prepare an inviting, clean, organized classroom with learning centers and hands-on activities aligned with NAEYC philosophy.
Interact frequently with children in a positive, respectful, responsive, and encouraging manner consistent with NAEYC guidelines.
Orient and actively supervise children in small and large groups.
Develop relationships with parents and communicate directly with them regularly.
Maintain classroom records and required written documentation.
Help maintain a positive work climate and communicate effectively and directly with other staff.
Assist new and substitute staff assigned to the classroom.
Assist the supervisor and provide staff support to other classrooms and employees as necessary.
Assist with maintenance, general housekeeping, and repair of assigned areas and common spaces.
Perform administrative duties as necessary for classroom and Center operations.
Serve in the absence of the Head Teacher or Teacher as necessary.
Complete 15 hours of early childhood training within the first six months and each year thereafter.
Maintain a current Aspire account to record education and training with QualitystarsNY.