Assistant Teacher

Easter Seals Blake Foundation•Tucson, AZ

23d

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher assists in implementing appropriate curriculum in a classroom setting for toddlers and preschool-aged children. The role supports partnerships with families to meet each child's needs and maintains current, timely documentation in compliance with Center and regulatory standards. The Assistant Teacher helps maintain a home-like classroom environment, supports children’s learning and development, and implements plans for children with special needs. The position requires ongoing professional development, communication with families and agency contacts, and adherence to professional standards and confidentiality.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED or an age-specific Child Development Associate Credential (CDA).
Willingness and ability to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education.
At least 21 years of age.
Current, unrestricted Arizona driver's license, with no more than two minor moving violations or one accident within the past three years.
Three years of driving experience.
Transportation to attend trainings and perform other work-related activities.
Ability to pass a criminal background check before employment and regular checks throughout employment.
Ability to obtain and maintain an Arizona DPS Level 1 fingerprint clearance card.
CPR and First Aid certification.
Food Handler's Card, or ability to obtain one within one month of starting.
Initial and current negative TB test result within the past 12 months.
Physical exam required for CAC/Palomita and, depending on additional requirements, before starting.
Provide an immunization statement before starting.
Knowledge of typical and atypical child development and research-supported developmentally appropriate educational practices.
Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural and linguistic diversity, and knowledge of methods for including children with developmental challenges.
Ability to work independently at times and take direction from the Lead Teacher at other times.
Ability to use reflective practice with children, families, and colleagues.
Ability to use technology for record-keeping, documentation, and investigation.
Ability to foster communication and collaboration and provide excellent customer service in stressful situations.
Professional appearance, communication, and conduct; excellent interpersonal communication skills; and basic computer knowledge.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and meet the physical demands of childcare and classroom work, with or without accommodation.
May be required to work additional hours or days depending on circumstances.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual in Spanish.

Responsibilities

Assist teachers in maintaining a home-like classroom environment that supports learning and reflects the developmental and individual needs of children.
Help carry out teacher-developed curriculum appropriate to the age and experience of the children, including physical, social, language, and cognitive development.
Adapt curriculum and interactions to meet individual children's needs, strengths, and interests.
Implement Individualized Family Service Plans or Individual Educational Plans for children with special needs.
Establish partnerships with parents and families to achieve shared goals for children.
Foster interaction and cooperation among children, encourage child-led small-group activities, and support self-regulation while intervening as needed to settle disputes.
Maintain confidentiality concerning children and families, and complete required documentation and reporting for each child.
Complete annual continuing education requirements and participate in ongoing professional development and meetings.
Maintain comprehensive communication with agency contacts, members, and external agencies.
Model professional standards and ethics in accordance with the EBF Code of Conduct, Strategic Plan, Mission, and Vision.
Perform other duties as assigned.