Early Childhood Education: Assistant Teacher

Santa Monica Family YMCA•Santa Monica, CA

About The Position

Under the direction of the Early Learning Center Director, the Early Childhood Education Assistant Teacher will assist the lead teachers with classroom activities under the project-based learning curriculum. Assistant Teachers will follow the daily routine, lead activities, engage with children positively and enrichingly, and supervise children. The Assistant Teacher provides a quality experience to children and parents in accordance with the association's policies and procedures that focus on the YMCA values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.

Requirements

A minimum of 6 ECE units from an accredited college.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Up-to-date TB test every 2 years. If you have a chest x-ray on file a TB test is no longer required.
Must have a current Live scan active on file OR obtain clearance prior to first day of hire (live scan is at the expense of the employee)
Ability to execute and lead age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
Employees must be able to lift 60 pounds.
Must have the ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, squat, kneel, and be in good physical health to supervise and perform activities with children.
Employee must be able to be on their feet for extended periods of time.
Must be able to safely withstand exposure to the elements, which include sun, wind, and any weather while on duty.
Must be able to plan, lead, and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor and indoor settings.
Ability to see at a normal distance and hear everyday conversations and sounds.
Use hands and fingers to fill out required forms on a regular basis.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working (paid or volunteer) with children in a developmental setting preferred.
Previous experience with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

Maintain all children's classroom records in an up-to-date accurate and appropriate manner.
Conduct classroom programs in compliance with department policies and procedures following all state and federal laws and regulations.
Keep the lead teacher and director informed of incidents, problems and occurrences with staff, children, parents, and program.
Complete assignments in a timely, organized, neat and accurate manner.
Attend and participate in regular in-service trainings for staff.
Follow daily opening and / or closing procedures.
Ensure that classroom and program activity areas are kept in an organized and tidy manner.
Follow the project-based learning model by conducting a goal-oriented and themed curriculum.
Ensure a safe and healthy environment for all program participants.
Employ consistent methods of child behavior management and work with all staff to maintain consistent and fair discipline techniques.
Give attention to and solve day-to-day incidents that occur in the program.
Address parent and program participant concerns in a timely and professional manner.
Supervise and assist children with meal and snack time.
Supervise and assist children with toileting and personal care needs.
Supervise nap/quiet time for children.