Teacher Aide

SEQUATCHIE VALLEY EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY•Pikeville, TN

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Teacher Aide works under the supervision of a teacher or assigned teacher assistant to support a well-planned, developmentally appropriate curriculum for children in an assigned classroom and carry out supplementary educational activities. Child safety, including keeping track of children’s count and location, is essential. The position is generally scheduled for 150 paid days per year, with an average workday determined by bus-driving availability or other assignments and generally lasting five hours. The aide may act as an assistant teacher when following an approved training plan to earn a CDA within 24 months or when holding an Early Childhood degree, as described in the Head Start Act and federal guidance. The aide helps assess children’s developmental levels, plan for individual needs, organize the classroom, implement lesson plans and individualization tasks, and involve parents in their child’s education and the program. The role also includes supervising volunteers, assisting with parent training activities, making home visits for specific needs, completing training assignments, and carrying out cleaning duties, including assisting or substituting for nutrition staff.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one year of paid or volunteer experience working with young children.
Knowledge of child growth and development and children’s needs.
Ability to communicate with children and adults.
Adequate personal transportation, adequate auto liability coverage, and proof of a satisfactory driving record.
Pass the required pre-employment physical, drug screening, and provide evidence of a negative TB screening.
Staff hired after January 15, 2001, must pass the state DHS fingerprinting process before hire.

Nice To Haves

Ability to engage children in a well-run and orderly classroom in a safe, literacy-rich, nurturing environment.
CDA credential and/or early childhood education coursework; aides are encouraged to pursue these credentials or coursework.
Computer skills.
Spanish training.

Responsibilities

Help assess children’s developmental levels and plan to meet their individual needs.
Follow the lead in organizing the classroom to meet children’s needs and provide an appropriate environment for the curriculum.
Help implement lesson plans and individualization tasks.
Involve parents in their children’s education and encourage participation in all aspects of the program.
Supervise volunteers and assist with training activities for parents.
Make home visits for specific needs and complete training assignments.
Complete cleaning assignments, including assisting or substituting for nutrition staff.
Maintain child safety, including tracking children’s count and location.