Summary

The Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in creating a nurturing and educational environment for young children. This role involves assisting with the implementation of curriculum, maintaining classroom organization, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. The Teacher Assistant works collaboratively with the teaching team to support each child’s development and learning.

Duties

Key Responsibilities:

Classroom Support:

• Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Support the setup and maintenance of an engaging, safe, and clean classroom environment.
• Help prepare materials and resources for daily activities and lessons.

Child Supervision and Interaction:

• Supervise children during classroom activities, outdoor play, and transitions between activities.
• Engage with children in a positive and nurturing manner, fostering their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Assist with the management of classroom behavior and the implementation of positive behavior strategies.

Individualized Support:

• Provide individualized attention and support to children as needed, including those with special needs.
• Assist in observing and documenting children’s progress and development.
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher to address any developmental concerns and implement appropriate interventions.

Health and Safety

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children at all times.
• Assist with routine health and safety tasks, including handwashing, diapering, and cleaning.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow center policies and procedures.

Family Engagement:

• Communicate effectively and respectfully with parents and families.
• Support the Lead Teacher in sharing information about children’s progress and daily activities with families.
• Assist in organizing and participating in center events and activities involving families.

Professional Development and Team Collaboration:

• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Work collaboratively with the teaching team and center staff to create a positive and inclusive environment.
• Follow center policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related fieldpreferred.
• Previous experience working with young children in an early childhood or educational setting;preferred.

Certifications:

• First aid and CPR certification, or ability to obtain them within
• Medication Administration Training (MAT) to administer prescription and/or non-prescription medications,if applicable.
• Child Abuse Recognition and Intervention Training certification.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull (move objects) up to 50 pounds, including children, equipment, and supplies.
• Ability to move around the CDC frequently to monitor activities and interact with the children and staff.
• Capability to sit, stand, walk, and engage in physical activities with children for extended periods.
• Some sedentary work sitting at a desk and working on a computer; ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards.
• Capability to perform tasks such as bending, stooping, and reaching.
• Position requires close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures, viewing a computer, extensive reading.
• Repetitive motion; substantial movements (motions) of wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
• Physical endurance to handle a dynamic and noisy environment.

Emotional Demands

• Ability to work in fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to maintain emotional control under stress.

Mental / Sensory Demands

• Ability to manage multiple stimuli in a noisy environment.
• Extensive verbal and written communication.
• Ability to reason, analyze data, and use logic.
• Ability to remain alert and energetic for eight (8) or more hours.

Benefits

Dental insurance
Employee discount
Health insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Vision insurance