Teacher Aide

TEACHER AIDE, HEAD START

REPORTS TO:           Head Teacher

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Works as a team with the Head Teacher to implement Head Start Performance Standards related to the operation of the classroom. In addition to these standards, ensures that the classroom adheres to NAEYC and other applicable standards.  Follows program protocol for holistic delivery of services to children and families.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• CDA and/or some college work in early childhood education or field related to early childhood education preferred with one years’ experience working with pre-school aged children; or

High school diploma and two years’ experience working with pre-school aged children

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

• Must be physically able to perform the duties of the position which may require lifting unspecified weights, standing, bending, use of hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; transferring individuals, stretching, walking, pushing and/or pulling
• Must be able to walk frequently; occasionally sit, climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl and taste or smell
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, follow instructions and procedure manuals
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form
• Ability to use independent judgment and work flexible hours
• Ability to communicate clearly with others, both verbally and in written form
• Ability to organize, to show initiative and to pay attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and as a team member to build positive school-family partnerships
• Ability to use logical, clear, concise reasoning to make decisions in performance of job
• Ability to use and learn computer software and to calculate and comprehend basic math calculations
• Ability to work with and relate to preschoolers and their families

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

EDUCATION SERVICES:

By example, set the professional and caring atmosphere of the center.

Assist teaching team in ensuring that the physical space and materials provided fosters optimal growth and development and adheres to Head Start and licensing standards including health and safety requirements.

Actively participate in curriculum planning to meet program protocol, NAEYC and Performance Standards.  Be aware of the intellectual, physical, emotional and social needs of each child and plan with parents and staff for effective curriculum and other services to meet those needs.

Be responsible for daily preparation of program activities. 

Work as a team with the teaching staff to conduct required home visits, parent teacher conferences and assessments concerning the children.

Work as a team with the teaching staff to provide necessary documentation including but not limited to individual goals, weekly lesson plans, observations and evaluations of the children.  Keep records and documentation as assigned by the Head Teacher.

Work collaboratively with team members to support the work of case management/consultation and other team meetings, including outside meetings such as Planning and Placement Team Meetings. Work with all staff to coordinate service delivery and to plan for particular children or families that may need more extensive interventions or more comprehensive approaches to service delivery.  Provide support and advocacy for the child. 

Coordinate with all other Head Start staff to integrate comprehensive services for Head Start children and families.  Provide families with information about Head Start services and activities.

Work closely with other Head Start staff to facilitate the transition of children into, out of and within the Head Start Program. 

Work closely with and share information with supervisor and team members to coordinate services to children and families. Become familiar with program policies and activities in order to encourage and support the home-school connection. 

Ensure that children with disabilities and their families have access to all Head Start services.

Be responsible for children's health and safety at all times during program hours. 

PROGRAM OPERATIONS:

Maintain high level of confidentiality regarding Head Start children, families, staff and program

operations in accordance with agency and program policies and ensure for the confidentiality of all records and materials. 

Adhere to the framework of professional responsibilities set forth in the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.

Develop and maintain friendly and professional relationships with agency and program staff, parents and community partners and encourage participation in program and agency activities.

Ensure that all emergencies and accidents are reported to the Head Teacher and documented appropriately. 

Follow program protocol as it relates to mandated reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect. 

Practice universal precautions at all times.

Actively participate in all required meetings including, but not limited to, Case Consultation, Individual Action Plans, Peer Teacher Meetings, supervision meetings, etc.

Attend agency and Head Start staff meetings, workshops, and training sessions as necessary to comply with licensing and Head Start professional development requirements.

Maintain a gossip free work environment.

Other related duties as assigned.

CLASSIFICATION:  Non-exempt