Instructional Assistant, Head Start

Texas ESC Region 16•Amarillo, TX

12h

About The Position

Primary Purpose: To comply with all federal guidelines (Head Start Performance Standards, Transmittal Notices, etc.) and local Head Start/Early Head Start policies in providing children and families with Head Start/Early Head Start services. To assist teachers in providing children with a learning environment and varied experiences which will help them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development and toward the overall goal of social competence. Qualifications: Education/Certification High School diploma or GED required Child Development Associate (CDA) or willingness to obtain within one year required Current first aid/ CPR certification or willingness to obtain required Skills Experience working with young children preferred Loving, nurturing disposition toward young children required Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred Clear background history checks at the local, state, and federal levels required (Background checks are conducted by the ESC at no cost to the applicant.) Demonstrated ability to follow instructions and uphold the high standards of the Head Start quality of care according to the Head Start Performance Standards Moderate technology skills required Willing to uphold the Head Start Standards of Conduct required Must be service driven with the ability to assume personal responsibility and maintain a positive outlook Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, possess the ability to work as a team player, enjoy a variety of activities, and possess organizational abilities Working Conditions: Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom and nursery equipment such as toys, playgrounds, multiple-rider strollers, etc.; personal computer and printer Posture: Must be physically able to tolerate frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting Motion: Must be physically able to participate in moderate to high levels of physical activity, such as, but not limited to, standing for moderate to lengthy periods of time, frequent squatting and sitting on the floor, frequent walking, and overhead reaching, occasional driving Lifting: Must be physically able to tolerate regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds or more) Environment: Must be physically able to tolerate cleaning products and sanitizers, work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; frequent exposure to bodily fluids; tolerate occasional travel between work sites Mental Demands: Must be able to work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress and self-control in the presence of children Regular Attendance is an essential function

Requirements

High School diploma or GED required
Child Development Associate (CDA) or willingness to obtain within one year required
Current first aid/ CPR certification or willingness to obtain required
Experience working with young children preferred
Loving, nurturing disposition toward young children required
Clear background history checks at the local, state, and federal levels required (Background checks are conducted by the ESC at no cost to the applicant.)
Demonstrated ability to follow instructions and uphold the high standards of the Head Start quality of care according to the Head Start Performance Standards
Moderate technology skills required
Willing to uphold the Head Start Standards of Conduct required
Must be service driven with the ability to assume personal responsibility and maintain a positive outlook
Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, possess the ability to work as a team player, enjoy a variety of activities, and possess organizational abilities

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred

Responsibilities

Engages in respectful goal-oriented partnerships with families to promote student success and family well-being
Cooperates with and assists teacher regarding classroom operations
Assists children with diapering and toilet training using Early Head Start/Head Start approved procedures
Actively supervises and interacts with children during all activities
Uses calm, non-threatening voice
Demonstrates respect for each child and accepts differences in children
Corrects through conversation and models expected behavior
Follows safety and environment regulations
Maintains confidentiality of child and family information
Models correct speech patterns and vocabulary for children
Interacts in a positive manner with parents and treats them with respect
Maintains a safe playground environment
Acts as primary caregiver in the teacher’s absence
Substitutes in classes as needed
Follows teacher's instructions for lesson plans
Provides emergency medical care as needed
Eats one meal daily with children (sharing the same menu) and assists children with clean up
Monitors the appropriate approved persons to pick up the children 19. Cleans and sanitizes materials throughout the day and completes required documentation
Complies with center policies
Supports program policies and changes
Completes and submits all forms by due dates
Attends all required staff development and meetings
Attends parent meetings as required
Attends home visits as needed
Completes appropriate Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential within timeline designated by Head Start/Early Head Start CDA advisor; maintains current Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential once obtained
Obtains and maintains first aid/CPR certifications
Complies with ESC personnel policies regarding absences and tardiness
Collects and analyzes information for improvement
Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities
Performs duties that directly and/or indirectly impact student performance in Region 16
Maintains a professional level of confidentiality regarding all ESC matters
Supports the mission, goals, and objectives of the ESC strategic plan
Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the ESC safety program
Performs professional responsibilities as required by ESC policies, processes, and procedures
Manages time, calendar, and job responsibilities to meet deadlines
Meets proficiency levels of required technology skills as outlined by supervisor
Incorporates appropriate technology in daily work and exhibits continual growth in technologies as outlined by supervisor
Performs other duties as assigned