Assistant Teacher

ECS4KIDS•Harlem, GA

13d•$15 - $16•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher supports the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate classroom activities under the direction of the Center Manager and Lead Teacher. The role follows Head Start Performance Standards, Georgia Bright from the Start: Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) Rules and Regulations, and ECS4Kids Policies and Procedures. The Assistant Teacher helps provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment that supports each child’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The position includes supporting classroom activities and routines, supervising children and following health and safety procedures, communicating with families, and collaborating with the Lead Teacher and other staff. Employees may also be required to perform other related duties as needed.

Requirements

For the Assistant Teacher role: High school diploma or GED and completion of a CDA credential, or an associate or baccalaureate degree in ECE or a related field, within two years of hire.
For the Assistant Teacher I role: High school diploma or GED and a National CDA credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds CDA credential requirements.
Demonstrate competency in effective, nurturing teacher-child interactions; planning and implementing learning experiences; implementing curriculum; using assessments; and promoting children’s progress in accordance with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: Ages Birth to Five and applicable state early learning and development standards, including for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate.
Ability to provide a supportive and caring environment for children.
Ability to exercise control and maintain appropriate classroom discipline.
Ability and willingness to implement the approved curriculum.
Ability to exercise good judgment and emotional maturity.
Ability to build and establish collaborative relationships.
Ability to work effectively with diverse staff and families.
Knowledge of applicable safety and abuse-reporting procedures.
Ability to maintain confidential information.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to plan and organize work and maintain records.
Willingness to learn and continue personal education.
Complete TB screening and a physical before having direct contact with children; renew every two years.
Current First Aid and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training.
Complete at least 10 hours of state-approved training within the first 90 days of employment.
Complete 25 hours of annual training, January through December, in topics related to child development, health and safety, curriculum, and program operations. Training must be Georgia state-approved and documented in the staff member’s personnel file.
Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds as needed to assist children or move classroom materials.
Frequent bending, kneeling, squatting, and sitting on the floor to engage with children at their level.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the day, indoors and outdoors.
Capacity to respond quickly and physically in emergency situations.
Regular visual and auditory monitoring of children to ensure safety and engagement.
Tolerance for high noise levels and a fast-paced, physically active environment.

Responsibilities

Assist in implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities.
Assist with child assessment documentation.
Support classroom routines and transitions throughout the day.
Engage with children during learning, play, and meal times.
Help maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating classroom environment.
Monitor children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being.
Assist with daily health checks and hygiene routines.
Follow safety, emergency, and sanitation procedures.
Greet and communicate with families in a friendly and professional manner.
Support parent involvement activities as directed by the Lead Teacher or Center Manager.
Assist with home visits and parent conferences as directed by the Lead Teacher or Center Manager.
Work closely with the Lead Teacher to support classroom goals and individual child needs.
Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and coaching opportunities.
Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
Perform other related duties as required.