Teacher Assistant - Head Start (Edgewood)

Maryland Rural Development Corporation•Abingdon, MD

15d•$19 - $20

About The Position

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC), a private non-profit organization serving rural, low-income households and communities, seeks a Head Start Teacher Assistant. The role supports the Head Start Teacher in creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children. The assistant supports instruction, behavior management, daily routines, school readiness, and social-emotional development; helps maintain an organized classroom; and promotes family engagement. The role also helps ensure MRDC philosophies and priorities are met. This is an eleven-month, full-time position serving children ages 3–5 in a classroom setting, with occasional home visits or community engagement activities. The position requires a high school diploma or GED. A CDA credential, an associate degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education is preferred. Prior experience with preschool-aged children, preferably in an early childhood education setting, is also preferred.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
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

CDA (Child Development Associate) credential, associate degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education.
Previous experience working with preschool-aged children, preferably in an early childhood education setting.

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.