Early Learning Support Aide

Action Pathways•Fayetteville, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Head Start Early Learning Support Aide (ELSA) provides flexible, on-demand support across classrooms and center operations to ensure continuity of high-quality services for children and families. This position assists teaching staff in maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while supporting the overall flow of daily program activities. The ELSA works under the direction of center leadership and may be assigned to different classrooms or areas based on program needs. This role does not serve as the primary teacher or assume full classroom responsibility but supports the implementation of educational activities and classroom routines in alignment with Federal Head Start Performance Standards and all applicable local, state, and agency policies and procedures.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
High School Graduate or General Education Degree (GED) with a minimum of EDU 119, Child Development Associate (CDA), pursuing or achieved AA or BA Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field a plus.
Must meet North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) requirements for child care staff, including: Completion of required pre-service health and safety training
Criminal background check (NC DCDEE qualifying letter)
Medical statement and TB screening as required
Must be eligible to work in a licensed child care facility in North Carolina
Previous experience working with young children (birth to age five) in a group setting preferred
Experience in a Head Start or early childhood program is strongly preferred
Basic understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practices
Ability to follow direction and work collaboratively with teaching staff and center leadership
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact positively with children, families, and staff
Ability to maintain flexibility and adapt to changing assignments and classroom needs
Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and engage in active movement (bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and standing for extended periods)
Ability to supervise children in indoor and outdoor environments
Must obtain and maintain current certification in CPR and First Aid (or obtain within required timeframe)
Must complete all required Head Start and agency trainings and professional development
Must have reliable transportation if assigned to multiple classrooms or sites
Food Handler's License
Current (negative) TB test with receipt
Annual physical
First Aid Certificate
CPR Certificate
Valid driver's license or reliable transportation.
Annual state vehicle inspection, and proof of vehicle liability insurance coverage if POV.
Must be able to work and communicate with a wide variety of people, particularly pre-school-aged children.
The employee must be able to pass a criminal background record check and post-offer employment and random substance abuse tests.
The employee must be able to complete a criminal background check and maintain an active Criminal Background Check (CBC) Qualification letter through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development.
A good driving record with no moving violations is required with Valid Driver's License.
Background check with state and Federal law enforcement agencies required.
Selected applicants must submit to a pre-employment substance abuse screening test and receive a negative result for the use of drugs and alcohol as specified in agency policies.
Must submit and receive negative results for random testing of same.
The employee must have a valid North Carolina Driver's License.
Must be able to pass a post-offer physical examination.

Nice To Haves

Pursuing or achieved AA or BA Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field a plus.
The ability to speak Spanish is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Assist teaching staff in maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
Provide active supervision of children at all times in accordance with Head Start safety standards
Support daily classroom routines, including transitions, indoor/outdoor activities, and rest periods
Help guide children’s behavior using positive guidance and developmentally appropriate practices
Step into classrooms as needed to maintain required staff-to-child ratios
May be required to assist with completion of daily documentation.
Support the implementation of lesson plans and learning activities under the direction of the Lead Teacher or Teacher
Assist with preparing, organizing, and maintaining classroom materials and learning environments
Engage children in play-based learning and developmentally appropriate interactions
Reinforce learning concepts through small group or individual support as directed
Follow all health and safety procedures, including sanitation, handwashing, and infection control practices
Assist with meal and snack service, ensuring proper supervision and safe practices during mealtimes
Help maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free classroom environment
Monitor children for signs of illness or distress and report concerns promptly
Provide coverage across classrooms and center areas based on daily staffing needs
Support playground monitoring and shared spaces as assigned
Help with general tasks such as organizing supplies, laundry, and classroom setup/cleanup
Interact with families in a warm, respectful, and professional manner
Support family engagement activities and center events as needed
Assist with communication efforts by helping distribute information and materials
Maintain confidentiality and respect for all children and families
Adhere to all Head Start Performance Standards and agency policies and procedures
Maintain flexibility and responsiveness to changing daily assignments and program needs
Participate in required trainings and ongoing professional development
Maintain confidentiality of child and family information at all times
Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to the Head Start mission

Benefits

Competitive pay with periodic Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA)
Zero-cost Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (Employee only)
Retirement plan with 100% employer matching
Paid Vacation/Sick/Personal leave
13 Paid Holidays
Winter break (2 weeks w/leave)
Spring Break (for Head Start)
Paid professional development training
Education assistance after one year employed
Auto mileage reimbursement for official travel
Employee discounts
Bragg Mutual Credit Union Membership
Employee Recognition Events