Mason Head Start Teacher Assistant (10.5 months)

About the position

The Head Start Teacher Assistant is responsible for a group of children or area of activity as assigned, supervising play activities by participation in group games, enforcing safety rules, and intervening when children are likely to injure themselves or others. The Head Start Teacher Assistant will also act as Teacher in absence of Director/Teacher by learning all aspects of the function of a Head Start Classroom, such as completing all assigned paperwork and reports, supervision of children, and sharing in the implementation of lesson plans.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for developing, writing, and conducting a planned lesson at least once a month; more frequently as experience is gained.
• Prepare and conduct at least one center activity a day, such as circle time, science, home or other.
• Work closely with the Center Director and Classroom Teacher to maintain a calm classroom conducive to good early childhood learning standards without resorting to physical punishment.
• Ensure that childcare routines are carried out in a manner that is prompt, hygienic, and consistent with good child development principles.
• Assist the children at snack, breakfast, and lunch time; assure that the Head Start philosophy of serving family style meals is maintained.
• Ensure the safety of children through constant supervision, effective arrangement of space, proper maintenance of equipment, and regular practice of fire drills and other emergency procedures.
• Work as a member of a team to ensure continuity of curriculum and high standards of equality in the classroom.
• Responsible for documentation in half of the children's files in all content areas.
• Complete Individual Development Plans for each enrolled child; continue the ongoing assessment process.
• Observe, record, and report any child's behavior, sharing information appropriately with other staff members.
• Attend all staff meetings and other training as provided.
• After the new hire probationary period (90 days), work toward and receive a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Center Director.

Requirements

• Must attend annual pre-service training in summer (date TBD upon interview).
• Minimum: High School Diploma or GED.
• By September 30, 2013, all Teacher Assistants must have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
• Some experience and ability to work with pre-school children.
• Must have a warm, supportive, pleasant, and positive attitude toward young children and parents.
• Must be reliable and flexible in receiving assignments or adapting to changes in the program.
• Must be willing to accept supervision to improve work performance.
• Professional in manner and attire.
• No record of a conviction which would contraindicate employment.
• Must have a valid Class C driver's license and a reliable vehicle with current liability insurance.
• Must maintain CPR and First Aid certifications.
• Must comply with all HCCAA Policies and maintain confidentiality and courtesy in all phases of agency operations.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual skills are encouraged.
• Knowledge of basic math and literacy skills.

Benefits

• Accrual of sick and vacation time.
• Medical, life and short/long-term disability insurance.
• Employee paid group dental insurance.
• Participation in the 401-k retirement plan after a year's employment.
• Paid holidays.