Head Start (HS) Associate Teacher - Preschool (Early Childhood Program Specialist 2)

CCS Spokane • Spokane, WA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Spokane Colleges Head Start/ECEAP/Early Head Start provides care and support for more than 1,600 children and their families. We offer safe and secure learning environments for children to grow and develop their skills to succeed in elementary school and beyond. We are dedicated to working with low-income families and involve parents and families in developing the goals of each Head Start center including centers on the Spokane Falls Community College and Spokane Community College campuses. We also serve the children of eligible students while they attend college. Under the general supervision of the Center Manager, the Associate Teacher performs recurring routine job duties and assignments under the daily direction of the Lead Teacher in implementing the educational curriculum and the general operation of a Head Start/Early Head Start (HS/EHS) early childhood classroom.

Requirements

• Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education OR A minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential OR A state-awarded certificate in Early Childhood Education – Infant Toddler Care for infant/toddler positions or a state-awarded certificate in Early Childhood Education – General for preschool positions OR Are enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree, or are enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within one (1) year of the time of hire.
• Knowledge of early childhood education theory and practices, including child development, developmentally appropriate practices, primary caregiving, observation and ongoing assessment, individualizing, planning, special services, referrals, developing and maintaining a classroom environment and routines, and child management.
• Knowledge of the impacts of complex trauma on family systems.
• Ability to understand and utilize data in decision-making and program implementation.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Knowledge of appropriate techniques for diapering, sanitation, napping, feeding, and toilet training.
• Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in an early childhood program.
• First Aid/CPR certification (or ability to obtain when training offered by Spokane Colleges)
• Valid Food Workers Card (as available through Washington State Department of Health).
• Must be able to successfully work in and promote a multicultural work and education environment.
• Person hired must be able to provide acceptable documentation of U.S. Citizenship or lawful authorization to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• One or more years experience working with infant/toddler/preschool aged children.
• Previous experience with Head Start/Early Head Start or working with low-income families from a variety of cultural groups, especially English as a Second Language (ESL).
• Basic computer skills, including e-mail and word processing.
• Previous experience with Teaching Strategies Gold and Creative Curriculum Tools.

Responsibilities

• Participate in classroom and outside daily routines and activities.
• Utilize daily routines to support individual learning opportunities.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and documentation of an early childhood curriculum.
• Assist in assessing the developmental needs of infants/toddlers and/or preschoolers; track individual progress by recording ongoing assessments and assist with the development of individualized learning opportunities, inclusive of children with disabilities.
• Assist in conducting developmental screenings, providing referrals, and arranging follow-up services and ensuring parents are involved in curriculum planning and child observations in the classroom environment.
• Assist in promoting and protecting children’s health by adhering to Individual Health Plans (IHP) and special diet needs.
• Attend to children’s personal needs and use routine care as a component of primary caregiving.
• Participate in case management, home visits, center conferences and the development and implementation of Children’s Individual Plans (CIP) and family transition plans with Direct Service Team.
• Assist with maintaining required documentation, records, and supplies.
• Maintain required records and other information as requested.
• May assist in providing feedback to ECE student teachers.
• May assist, and/or perform work of the Lead Teacher.
• Work effectively as a member of a classroom and direct services team to provide integrated, comprehensive services to children and families.
• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships within the community; represent and promote HS/EHS at community events and committees, as assigned.
• Stay informed by attending all necessary training and meetings and reading all written program updates.
• Model professional decorum and mutual respect in all personal interactions.
• Comply with district policies, procedures and directives, state and federal regulations, orders and statutes and collective bargaining agreements.
• Support and advance Spokane Colleges’ strategic plan, and perform related duties as required.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, life and long term disability insurance benefits are provided as currently administered under Public Employees Benefits Board; WA State Retirement Plan; vacation and sick leave begin to accrue at the rate of 11.33 hours vacation and 8 hours sick leave per month, upon employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree