Paraprofessional

City of Chattanooga•Chattanooga, TN

6h•Onsite

About The Position

Chattanooga Head Start is a grant-funded program and is subject to reapplication every 5 years. The Paraprofessional will work 37.5 hours per week assisting the Center they are assigned to with providing HS/EHS services, and when time allows within the workday, time to complete their Infant/Toddler CDA credential. Paraprofessionals will also be used as a substitute teacher when a teacher or assistant is absent from a classroom. Current or former Head Start parents are encouraged to apply. All employees employed by Chattanooga Head Start may work directly with children.

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.
Current or former Head Start parents are encouraged to apply.
Knowledge of Child Development and Child Safety
Knowledge of Preschool child growth and development
Knowledge of ECE best practices
Knowledge of Classroom management
Knowledge of Importance of relationships and responsive caregiving
Knowledge of Child safety and supervision
Experience working with young children in a group setting
Experience working with staff and clients from various backgrounds
Knowledge of Confidentiality and respecting the rights of children, families, and staff
Skills in Working with small children in a group setting
Skills in Planning age-appropriate activities for children
Skills in Successful experience working in a team setting
Ability to work respectfully and cooperatively with a Teacher Assistant and Teacher, ensuring the successful management of a classroom
Ability to present a positive image of the organization to members of the community
Ability to plan, organize, and implement position requirements
Experience successfully working with staff and clients from various backgrounds.
Effective interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
Proficient use of computer applications, including word processing, data-entry into web-based software applications, and email communication

Nice To Haves

Bilingual candidates preferred (additional compensation offered for bilingual proficiency).

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, as required.
Maintain established standards of sanitation, safety, and food preparation and storage as set by the local and state health departments.
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, which at times may require changes to meet the needs of the children.
Distributing communications such as newsletters and flyers to families.
Maintaining confidentiality while keeping records and files accurate and up to date.
Perform 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.
Participate in Agency training events, center staff meetings, and other training events as needed.
Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.
Performs other duties as assigned.