Preschool Instructional Assistant - Part-Time

Public School of North Carolina•Asheville, NC

63d

About The Position

Teacher assistants may perform any of a wide range of duties depending on where and with whom they work. One of the major responsibilities of the teacher assistant is to work alongside the teacher to provide more interaction time for children and to visually supervise children at all times. When an assistant is in the classroom, she/he is expected to talk with children, ask questions, play with them, and take care of their needs as well as to keep them safe. Since the assistant's foremost responsibility is to follow the teacher's direction, it is important to determine, to some extent, the nature of duties to be performed. Suggestions for these duties may be found on the following pages. They are not designed to limit the role of the assistant or to infringe upon the responsibility of the teacher. Instead, it is hoped they will serve as a stimulus for other activities. Child care assistants are responsible for carrying out the teacher's plans before and after regular school hours. He/she should report to the teacher the effectiveness of the plans and work with the teacher to change plans as needed.

Requirements

At least a two-year college degree or 48 hours of college credit in EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION within the last 5 years.
Two years of college required.
Evidence of previous successful work experiences with children is desirable.
Knowledge of child growth, development, and behavioral characteristics.
Interest in and willingness to work with children.
Ability to take and follow directions.
Ability and willingness to maintain confidentiality of information, including child behaviors.
Manners and dress appropriate to the school setting.
Ability to relate well to people.
Punctuality and dependability.
Willingness to study, cooperate, and support school activities.
Ability to demonstrate effective written and oral expression.
A positive attitude, a willing spirit, and team commitment.
Hold a CDA credential or be willing to obtain one if required by the program.
Hold an AA degree in Early Childhood, or be willing to obtain one if required by the program.
Pass a criminal background check.
Secure at least three positive employment/character references.
Pass all medical requirements.

Responsibilities

Perform clerical responsibilities.
Keep abreast of plans to see that materials are available.
Record and transfer data as instructed by the teacher.
Receive any fees and keep records of the same.
Obtain and organize supplies and materials.
Operate media equipment.
Check attendance.
Be responsible for the care of materials and equipment.
Render assistance in large group activities
Assist with physical education activities, both indoors and out.
Help with field trips and supervise children for their safety.
Assist in serving meals and snacks.
Strive to make mealtime a learning experience.
Assist with all classroom activities.
Read or tell stories to groups of children.
Assist/participate in circle time activities.
Supervise students closely in the classroom and on the playground.
Work with small groups and individuals.
Give special attention to children who have been absent.
Attend to any children who become ill.
Observe and monitor student activities.
Engage children in conversations related to play and learning
Ask open-ended questions to encourage thinking and inquiry skills
Check physical conditions of the room.
Assist in arranging or rearranging furniture.
Assist with displaying student work.
Help keep centers neat/organized.
Keep tables and counters clean.
Assist in building pupils' self-concept - developing wholesome feelings.
Learn and call children by name.
Encourage children to try again when failure is met.
Give reassurance with a smile or friendly look.
Give praise or admiration for achievement
Give comfort, reassurance, and fair treatment when mishaps occur.
Learn something about the children to help you identify with them.
Encourage creative play.
Recognize the importance of each child's family by learning about the child's family and including family names during activities with the child.
Ask open-ended questions as opposed to questions requiring one-word answers.
Close windows.
Straighten the room and sanitize toys.
Turn off the air conditioner.
Turn off the lights.
Turn off the radio, computers, etc.
Make sure the outside door is locked.
Make sure the playground area is cleaned up.