Head Start Instructional Assistant

Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Inc.•Elizabethtown, KY

About The Position

The Head Start Instructional Assistant implements instructional experiences for preschool children under the direction of the Head Start Teacher, supporting their social, emotional, physical, and educational development. The assistant helps engage children in varied learning experiences, incorporates their interests into classroom activities, supports English Language Learners’ progress in their primary language and English, and helps maintain a safe, healthy learning environment in compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards. The role also supports child assessment and accurate, timely documentation and recordkeeping. The position requires an 8-hour shift, Monday through Friday. A high school diploma or GED and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential are required. Enrollment in a CDA credential program is accepted if completion is anticipated within two years of hire.

Requirements

Experience working in a team environment.
Experience working with children.
Reliable transportation.
Ability to work well with individuals from all cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Background check and pre-employment screenings are required.
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, or enrollment in a CDA credential program with anticipated completion within two years of hire.

Responsibilities

Implement instructional experiences for preschool children under the direction of the Head Start Teacher.
Use knowledge of early childhood development to support children’s development and learning.
Help ensure every child is engaged in and challenged by a variety of learning experiences.
Complete required annual training and professional development hours.
Promote development and significant progress for English Language Learners in their primary language and English.
Help incorporate each child’s interests into classroom activity planning.
Help maintain a safe and healthy environment that supports preschool children’s development and learning, while maintaining teacher-child ratios in compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards.
Assist the Teacher in assessing children.
Assist the Teacher with timely and accurate completion and maintenance of documentation and records.
Promote staff relationships that create a climate conducive to learning.
Perform other duties as assigned.