Teacher Assistant_Pre-K Counts: EA Wilmerding PKC

Allegheny Intermediate Unit•Wilmerding, PA

About The Position

The Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in planning and conducting classroom activities, lessons, and experiences that encourage exploration, learning, and development. The assistant helps implement a curriculum aligned with Head Start standards and responsive to children's individual developmental needs, using creative techniques to keep children engaged. The role includes observing and recording children's progress, behaviors, and needs; supporting their social, emotional, and cognitive development; and helping maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom. The assistant follows health and safety protocols, including sanitization, health screenings, and hygiene practices. They communicate with families and participate in parent-teacher conferences and meetings as needed, supervise children through daily routines, and help them develop self-care skills. The assistant collaborates with the Lead Teacher and other staff and participates in professional development. The position generally involves physical activity, including standing, bending, and interacting with children at their eye level. It may require lifting children or classroom supplies and managing an energetic group throughout the day. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Additional duties may be assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one of the following: a minimum of a CDA credential; a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds CDA requirements; enrollment in a program leading to an associate or baccalaureate degree; or enrollment in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of hire.
Strong communication, patience, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, staff, and families.
Must meet state and federal employment guidelines for a Head Start program, which may include background checks and health screenings.
Current Act 114, Act 34, Act 151, and NSOR clearances, dated within one year of the hire date, are required prior to an offer.
School Personnel Health Record (Form H511.340) must be completed and received by Human Resources before the hire date.
CPR and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain them.
Physical ability to perform the described duties, including sitting for extended periods; lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds; kneeling, crouching, bending, and reaching; repetitive finger and hand movements; clear and distinct speech; clear hearing; and adequate vision.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Experience working with young children in an educational setting.
Familiarity with the Head Start program and its guidelines.

Responsibilities

Support the Lead Teacher in planning and conducting classroom activities, lessons, and learning experiences.
Help implement a curriculum aligned with Head Start standards and children's individual developmental needs.
Use creative techniques to engage children in educational activities.
Observe and record children's progress, behaviors, and needs, and provide input for assessments and individualized learning plans.
Support children's social, emotional, and cognitive needs through interaction and encouragement.
Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment and follow health and safety protocols.
Participate in parent-teacher conferences and meetings as needed, and maintain positive communication with families.
Supervise children during meals, bathroom breaks, nap times, and other daily routines.
Help children develop self-care skills, including toileting, handwashing, and dressing.
Collaborate with the Lead Teacher and other staff to ensure consistency in teaching practices.
Participate in professional development opportunities.