Teacher Assistant I

Crossroads YMCA•Gary, IN

About The Position

The Teacher Assistant I supports the Teacher Lead in planning activities and caring for children in the classroom. The role provides a quality experience to children and parents focused on YMCA values of honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring. The position is limited to the duration of the Preschool Program school session and may change based on local school trends.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 6 months of experience.
Complete 12 continuing education units annually.
Complete required training, including Keeping Your YMCA Safe, within the designated time after starting.
Obtain CPR/AED and First Aid certifications and complete New Employee Orientation within 30 days of hire.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to relate and communicate effectively with diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.
High alertness, concentration, and initiative.
Ability to lift 50 pounds and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods; occasionally stoop or bend.
Maintain a neat and professional appearance.
Ability to bend, lean, kneel, and walk.
Demonstrate initiative and sound judgment.

Nice To Haves

At least 1 year of childcare experience.

Responsibilities

Support implementation of the curriculum within established guidelines, including preparing educational materials for student work.
Nurture children through purposeful programming that builds achievement and belonging and fosters relationships among youth and families.
Supervise children, the classroom, and activities, including appropriate ADA accommodations.
Follow procedures and standards and support behavior management in the program.
Support ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child.
Build positive relationships, participate in parent conferences as needed, and communicate effectively with parents.
Engage parents as volunteers and connect them with the YMCA as directed by the Teacher Lead.
Maintain the program site and equipment responsibly and effectively.
Maintain program records, including attendance and disciplinary documentation.
Attend and participate in family nights, events, program activities, staff meetings, and required staff training.
Support the Teacher Lead in enabling students to take classes remotely and ensuring class materials are accessible and meet program goals and objectives.
Support teamwork with other department staff.
Play a role in securing gifts for the annual campaign.
Perform other duties as assigned.