Head Start Teacher Assistant
About The Position
Northwestern Settlement is seeking a dedicated Head Start Teacher Assistant for its Early Childhood Program in Chicago. The program supports families in the West Town community by fostering a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children during critical years of development. The Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that promote children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. The role collaborates on core curriculum aligned with Head Start Program Performance Standards, NAEYC Standards, and the Community Partnership CPS. The position also supports children’s progress, family engagement, classroom safety, and ongoing professional development.
Requirements
- Associate degree in Early Childhood Development or a related field that includes 15 semester hours in Early Childhood Education.
- Illinois Gateways ECE/IT Credential Level 4.
- American Red Cross First Aid/CPR certification.
- Complete required forms and screening processes upon offer and acceptance, including three letters of recommendation, criminal background check, fingerprinting, and Child Abuse and Neglect Background Check.
- Excellent oral and written communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
- Ability to relate to a multicultural community.
- Ability to accept guidance and supervision.
- Excellent punctuality and attendance.
- Skill in data entry and database management.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Responsibilities
- Help create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment.
- Support implementation of lesson plans aligned with the Creative Curriculum System for Preschool.
- Help monitor and document children’s progress through observations and assessments.
- Participate in parent-teacher conferences to support individualized child development plans.
- Foster open communication with families and promote parent involvement.
- Maintain a safe and clean learning environment in compliance with DCFS and Head Start regulations.
- Participate in ongoing professional development, team meetings, and trainings.
- Perform other duties and functions as assigned by the direct supervisor.
Benefits
- Robust health benefits package.
- Dedicated workspace, laptop, email, high-speed internet access, and necessary supplies.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
