Paraprofessional (PT)- Extended Care

City of Chattanooga•Chattanooga, TN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This Paraprofessional position provides support to the classroom and acts as a substitute teacher when a teacher or assistant is absent. The role involves assisting children in daily routines, guiding social skill development through play, and maintaining a safe, healthy, and stimulating classroom environment. The position also includes preparing instructional materials, participating in transition activities, and distributing communications to families. A key aspect is actively pursuing professional development and maintaining accurate records while adhering to Head Start Performance Standards and other relevant regulations.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
Minimum 18 years of age required
Experience working with children ages birth to 5 years of age
Any combination of equivalent experience and education to perform the essential functions of the position will be considered
Must be willing to participate in a program to obtain a CDA within two years of employment
Knowledge of Child Development and Child Safety
Skills in working with small children in a group setting
Skills in planning age appropriate activities for children

Nice To Haves

Bilingual candidates preferred (additional compensation offered for bilingual proficiency)
Current or former Head Start parents are encouraged to apply

Responsibilities

Supporting classroom teachers in preparing and conducting engaging activities.
Assisting children in their daily routines and activities to develop social, self-help, and educational skills.
Guiding children in acquiring social skills through play and interaction.
Eating with and assisting children in the development of social and self-help skills, and sound nutritional practices.
Maintaining established standards of sanitation, safety, and food preparation and storage.
Helping to create a safe, healthy, and stimulating classroom and playground environment, following all Head Start and ITERS/ECERS Standards.
Preparing instructional materials and classroom decorations to enhance learning.
Participating in transition activities and assisting with health and safety checklists.
Collaborating with other staff and classroom groups to maintain the smooth functioning of the center.
Distributing communications such as newsletters and flyers to families.
Actively pursuing professional development and CDA credential.
Maintaining confidentiality while keeping records and files accurate and up to date.
Performing the functions of this position with a general understanding of the Head Start Performance Standards, State of Tennessee Child Care Licensing Regulations, and Agency policies and procedures; and working knowledge and application of Chattanooga Head Start School Readiness Goals.
Participating in Agency training events, center staff meetings, and other training events as needed.
Performing other duties as assigned.