GROUP TEAM LEADER

ALLEGHENY LUTHERAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES INC•Upper Yoder Township, PA

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Kid Stop of Johnstown, offering care for school-age children (kindergarten through age 12) for before and after school and full time on school vacation days including summer, is actively seeking a full time, first shift Group Team Leader. This position plans, organizes, develops, and directs the overall operations of the group home to ensure that the highest degree of quality care is always provided. Duties include: Assumes overall responsibility for children’s services in a group home with twelve children and is responsible for a group of children. May also supervise staff in adjacent group home(s). Greets each child and parents in a warm, friendly manner upon arrival at the center; facilitates entry into classroom and separation from parents. Uses language understood by children; uses voice as a teaching tool; uses low, calm voice, moving to children to talk rather than calling from distance; encourages same behavior in children. Sets and enforces consistent, realistic limits for children using non-punitive ways of dealing with inappropriate behavior such as focusing on the behavior, not the child; redirects, distracts and/or channels disruptive behavior into acceptable outlets; never uses corporal punishment; uses calm firm voice when disciplining children. Displays enjoyment of children and expresses genuine interest in them such as enjoying humorous incidents and laughing with them. Uses appropriate touch often with children to soothe, guide, redirect, reassure, reinforce. Is willing to learn from children and follow their lead. Documents children’s accidents and inappropriate behavior. States directions in positive terms, anticipating problems and planning to prevent their occurrence. Fosters social interactions and guides children to work out increasingly effective ways of settling disputes. Encourages independence in children by asking for their assistance with performing routines; allows children to complete some tasks by themselves as they are ready. Assists in supervising children’s snacks and meals; eats and talks with children at mealtimes; encourages reluctant eaters to try new foods. Adjusts staff and/or children to maintain proper ratios in classrooms. Provides an organized, structured schedule. Conducts parental meetings including arranging furniture, preparing snacks, and clean-up. Participates in ongoing staff training, becomes involved with other staff in planning, listens to suggestions, and sharing ideas. Observes and evaluates center staff, offering suggestions and guidance when necessary. Ensures that staff are aware of state regulations and follows them accordingly. Gives tours to prospective parents or other interested parties. Helps to enroll children in the group home by completing enrollment forms, food forms, parent packets, etc. Accurately maintains enrollment/attendance records and children’s files, assuring that all forms are updated and signed by parents. Keeps abreast of all child day care regulations regarding Title XX enrollment. Ensures the childcare feeding program is implemented including ordering meals, meal preparation, recording and reporting. Markets the program, clearly communicating with perspective clients, parents, landlords, meal service personnel, and other community members.

Requirements

Must possess a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification or apply to receive one on the next available period from date of hire and receive credential within 6 months of application date.
Bachelor or Associate degree in Education, Social Services or a related field.
Minimum of two years of work-related experience.