Teacher Assistant

COQUILLE INDIAN TRIBE • Coos Bay, OR

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the direct supervision of the Head Start Lead Teacher, the Teacher Assistant supports the delivery of a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom experience for children enrolled in the Coquille Indian Tribe Head Start program. This role plays a key part in maintaining classroom operations, supporting educational activities, and fostering positive relationships with children and families.

Requirements

• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to remain calm and professional in stressful or emotional situations
• Ability to foster an inclusive, respectful environment that values diversity and individual differences
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills in emergency situations
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Strong organizational, time management, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines accurately
• Initiative and accountability in completing tasks and supporting classroom operations
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to Indian traditions, customs, and socioeconomic considerations
• Knowledge of child health, disabilities, and family services as related to Head Start Performance Standards
• Basic computer literacy, including the ability to use word processing, spreadsheets, and databases
• Ability to perform basic mathematical functions
• Foundational knowledge of early childhood education, child development, and family/social services
• Ability to support children with special needs, challenging behaviors, and diverse cultural backgrounds
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff across departments
• Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education required, or current enrollment in a program leading to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree
• Previous professional experience working with Head Start or preschool-aged children required
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire
• Food Handler’s Card, or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire
• Current, valid Oregon driver’s license in good standing with no insurability restrictions from the Tribe’s insurance carrier
• Willingness to serve as a mandatory reporter, including reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation as required by law

Responsibilities

• Maintain a physically and emotionally safe, orderly classroom environment; supervise children at all times
• Ensure compliance with Head Start health, safety, and performance standards
• Assist with classroom preparation, organization, and daily clean-up
• Participate actively in classroom routines, educational activities, and field trips
• Rotate and maintain educational materials and learning resources
• Model positive verbal and physical interactions with children and families
• Utilize developmentally appropriate teaching practices
• Support children’s skill development and positive self-concept
• Maintain consistent, professional communication with parents and families and document interactions as required
• Encourage and facilitate family involvement in classroom activities
• Model effective behavior management strategies
• Accept classroom responsibilities and duties as assigned or scheduled
• Maintain knowledge of Head Start health and safety policies and procedures
• Assist the Lead Teacher in identifying and implementing classroom safety improvements
• Sanitize classroom spaces in accordance with established health and safety requirements
• Support coordination and administration of volunteer and fatherhood programs
• Document and appropriately file accident, incident, and behavior reports
• Assist with individualization of student learning plans and documentation of student progress
• Support orientation and training of assigned staff and assist with planning and delegating work as directed
• Demonstrate a positive attitude toward Head Start philosophy and program goals
• Model behaviors that reflect respect for diversity and an inclusive learning environment
• Accept feedback, guidance, and supervision constructively
• Share pertinent information related to children and families with appropriate staff
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and other meetings
• Commit to ongoing professional development as outlined in individual training plans and Head Start Act requirements
• Work alternate hours or days as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees