Summary of Position: 

The Assistant Teacher has the responsibility to collaborate with the Lead Teacher to ensure that direct cross component services as defined in Head Start/Early Head Start Performance Standards are provided to children assigned to their unit.  With the Lead Teacher, they share the tasks of overall record keeping, classroom responsibilities and design, as outlined in NAEYC guidelines and in the High/Scope Curriculum.  They also share in the task of supervision and training of direct service staff and volunteers assigned to their classroom.

Qualifications:

1.       Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or closely related field

2.       One year experience working with preschool children

3.       Ability to communicate verbally

4.       Ability to communicate in writing

5.       Current driver’s license

6.       Complete criminal record check from Department of Health & Welfare’s Criminal History Unit prior to consideration for hire

Duties and Responsibilities:

1.       Treat participants, fellow staff, and community members with positive regard.

2.       Manage tasks in a way that provides adequate preparation and evaluation each day

3.       Collaborate with center staff to ensure the classroom and center is an inviting and nurturing environment reflective of the local community and each individual’s culture

4.       Assist the Lead Teacher in supervising assigned classroom staff and volunteers and assist in providing appropriate training and on-going evaluation.

5.       Observe and document the developmental level of each child.  Individualize using appropriate tools and information from parents, staff, and professionals to create an individualized plan for each enrolled child.

6.       Assist Lead Teacher to set up a classroom schedule appropriate for the High/Scope curriculum. Plan, implement, evaluate, and modify child activities, daily classroom activities, involving staff, and volunteers.

7.       Collaborate with center staff to recruit, train and support parent and community volunteers.

8.       Share current information with parents related to child progress and potential challenges.

9.       Assist the Center Supervisor and Lead Teacher with recruitment activities as assigned.

10.   Assist in developing appropriate procedures for the supervision and documentation of health checks, dental brushing, and use of fluoride in the classroom.

11.   Plan and carry out individualized health and nutrition education in the classroom.

12.   Assist in planning and coordinating with food service staff to conduct classroom food experiences.

13.   Participate in an individual continuing education plan including CPR and First Aid.

Additional:

·         Be an advocate for Head Start/Early Head Start children and families within the community.

·         Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills

Ability to communicate verbally
Ability to communicate in writing

Required Experience

Minimum of one year experience working with preschool children