Para - Teacher Assistant (ECEAP) - 20262016

Clover Park School District • Lakewood, WA

50d • $26 - $29 • Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision of the building administrator, provides assistance to the certificated preschool teacher and/or classified preschool instructor in the development and implementation of daily educational programs for preschool age children, in accordance with program standards. Enhances parent’s role as the principle influence on the child’s education and development.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Early Childhood Education (ECE) certificate or degree, or CDA credential. (Note: This requirement does not apply to the Head Start Kitchen Assistant.)
• One (1) year of previous successful preschool, kindergarten, or related experience working with low income families; AND
• Associate’s Degree: OR two (2) years of study (72 quarter hours) at an accredited college or university, OR passing score (455) on state or local academic assessment. This requirement is mandated by ESEA No Child Left Behind Act of 2002.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for three to five year old children.
• Ability to communicate effectively and relate positively to students, parents, staff and volunteers in a diverse environment.
• Ability to adjust to varied situations, demands, and new instructional concepts.
• Ability to proficiently keyboard, utilize word processing and spreadsheet software; navigate the internet; and operate email applications.
• Ability to operate general office equipment such as photocopier, fax, personal computer, telephone, etc.
• Ability to attend occasional evening meetings and visit parents in their homes.
• Ability to supervise students on regularly scheduled field trips.
• Fingerprinting and background check.
• Proof of physical exam and TB testing. For positive test results a statement from a doctor or a chest x-ray must be provided.
• Pierce County Food and Beverage Handler’s Permit within ninety (90) days of hire.
• CPR/First Aid card.
• Paras are required to complete the district provided Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) as outlined by the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB). Positions excluded from this requirement are as follows: Health Room Para, Bus Para, In School Suspension Para, Library Para, Preschool Para.

Nice To Haves

• Post high school classes in early childhood education.
• Low income and current or past preschool program parent.
• Access to personal vehicle and proof of insurance.

Responsibilities

• Participates in planning for the early childhood or preschool educational program.
• Implements the daily classroom program as assigned, including music, meals, group projects, free-time and supervision of students.
• Prepares and organizes the physical classroom space and classroom materials in accordance with the planned educational program.
• Interacts positively with all children to support their individual learning and emotional needs.
• Prepares and serves snacks and meals to the children; eats with the children.
• Assists with recordkeeping on individual children and families as directed; completes written observations and participates in development and implementation of individualized student plans.
• Maintains knowledge and skills in early childhood education through participation in training activities and/or college level courses.
• Administers standardized screening tools as directed.
• Participates in interdisciplinary planning for children and families, including staffings and other cross-component coordination efforts.
• Attends at least one parent meeting per year. Encourage and supports families in working toward the goals they set for themselves.
• May assume the responsibilities of the classified preschool instructor in his/her absence.
• Act as bus monitor (Head Start program). Assist with loading and unloading children and their personal items; assist driver with supervison of bus riders, ensuring safe and appropriate behavior; assist driver in emergency situations; follow and demonstrate bus rules and regulations; ability to safely perform bus evacuation procedures; assist driver with maintaining attendance records, as requested; and lead developmentally appropriate activities on the bus.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Employees who are anticipated to work 630 hours during the school year (September 1 through August 31) are eligible for medical, dental, vision, long term disability and basic life insurance benefits.
• Clover Park School District benefits are administered by the Washington State Healthcare Authority under the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB).
• Eligible employees are required to be a member of the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems Plan.
• Employees also have the ability to participate in tax deferred 403(b) and 457 Deferred Compensation Plans (DCP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED