Teacher Assistant - Head Start (Edgewood)
About The Position
The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private nonprofit organization that provides services in response to the needs of rural, low-income households and communities, and serves as the official Community Action Agency for Caroline, Cecil, Harford, and Kent Counties. The Head Start Teacher Assistant supports the Head Start Teacher in creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children. The role assists with classroom instruction, behavior management, and daily activities to promote school readiness and social-emotional development, while helping maintain an organized classroom and supporting family engagement. The Teacher Assistant helps ensure that MRDC philosophies and priorities are met. This is an eleven-month, full-time position. Compensation is $19.15–$20.47, with salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Previous experience working with preschool-aged children, preferably in an early childhood education setting.
- Pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
- Meet all Maryland licensing requirements, including medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening.
- Valid driver's license and ability to drive to various MRDC locations throughout the state.
- Ability to work with young children and support their growth.
- Cultural competency and ability to work with diverse families.
- Ability to follow instructions and adapt to classroom needs.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Effective written and oral communication skills.
- Relationship-building experience.
- Demonstrated success in accomplishing the described tasks.
Nice To Haves
- Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, associate degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education.
Responsibilities
- Assist the Head Start Teacher in planning and implementing lesson plans aligned with Head Start guidelines.
- Engage children in developmentally appropriate activities, including play-based learning, reading, and hands-on experiences.
- Help observe and assess children's development and provide input for individualized learning plans.
- Encourage and model positive social-emotional behaviors and problem-solving skills.
- Supervise children to ensure a safe and nurturing environment.
- Assist with classroom organization, including setting up materials and maintaining a clean learning space.
- Support children during daily routines such as meals, naptime, and transitions.
- Follow Head Start health and safety policies, including proper hygiene and sanitation procedures.
- Develop positive relationships with families and communicate regularly about children's progress.
- Encourage parental involvement in classroom activities and Head Start events.
- Assist in preparing materials for parent meetings and conferences.
- Work collaboratively with the teacher, other staff members, and program administrators.
- Attend training sessions, workshops, and meetings as required by the Head Start program.
- Ensure files are complete, accurate, and maintained confidentially.
- Think, concentrate, and interact positively with others; arrive promptly every day; work under stress and meet deadlines.
- Perform related work as required or assigned.
Benefits
- Health care plan, including medical, dental, and vision.
- Retirement plan (401k, IRA).
- Life insurance (basic, voluntary, and AD&D).
- Paid time off (vacation, sick, and public holidays).
- Short-term disability.
- Training and development.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
