Teacher Assistant - Head Start (Edgewood)

Maryland Rural Development Corporation•Joppatowne, MD

15d•$19 - $20

About The Position

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, daily activities, school readiness, and social-emotional development. The assistant helps maintain a clean and organized classroom and supports family engagement while ensuring that MRDC philosophies and priorities are met. This is an eleven-month, full-time position. The work takes place in a classroom with children ages 3–5 and may include occasional home visits or community engagement activities. The position requires significant periods of standing, walking, kneeling, sitting on the floor, or crouching, and may at times require lifting 25–50 pounds. Compensation is $19.15–$20.47, 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.
Passion for working with young children and supporting 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 experience.
Relationship-building experience.
Valid driver's license and ability to drive to various MRDC locations throughout the state.
Demonstrated success in accomplishing the outlined tasks.
Must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
Must pass Maryland licensing requirements, including medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening.

Nice To Haves

Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Associate's 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 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; report to work promptly; work under stress; and meet deadlines.
Perform related work as required or assigned.