Assistant Teacher (10-month, Full-Day)

About the role

The Guidance Center, a recognized leader since 1958, provides a broad range of treatment, prevention, growth, and education services to over 14,200 people annually. We are seeking an Assistant Teacher to join our team of talented professionals. The Assistant Teacher will ensure daily activities and interactions reflect the mission and goals of the program, support early childhood development, and maintain a clean, nurturing, and safe environment for preschool children.

Responsibilities

• Ensure daily activities and interactions reflect the mission and goals of the program.
• Assist with planning and implementing appropriate early childhood activities based on the Preschool HighScope curriculum.
• Provide and maintain a clean, nurturing, and safe environment that supports preschool children’s growth and development.
• Adhere to and maintain compliance with The Guidance Center, Office of Head Start Performance Standards, and all applicable local, state, and agency policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate cultural competency, sensitivity, and respect for the diverse backgrounds, needs, and experiences of children, families, community volunteers, and staff.
• Pass a physical examination and background checks prior to hire.

Requirements

• Associate Degree (AA) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, a related field with 12 credit hours in Early Childhood Education, a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate, or a state‑awarded certificate meeting or exceeding CDA requirements; or enrollment in a program leading to an associate or baccalaureate degree, or enrollment in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of hire.
• Knowledge and understanding of early childhood development and ability to implement developmentally appropriate curriculum practices.
• Previous experience working with preschool children in a classroom setting.
• Ability to lift up to 60 pounds unassisted to assist children during emergencies.
• Non‑judgmental approach reflecting cultural competency and sensitivity to the unique needs and diverse experiences of students, families, and partners.
• Ability to appropriately handle crisis situations.
• Physical stamina to stand consecutively for 3 ½ hours per part‑day class session and 5 hours per full‑day class session.
• Ability to ambulate between sitting on the floor, standing, and chair‑to‑standing a minimum of 20 times per session.
• Ability to bend and stoop to child level and lift for urgent and emergency situations.
• Ability to bend and stoop to address child concerns a minimum of 12 times per hour on average (e.g., tying shoes for child safety).
• Ability to sit on the floor or on a child‑size chair for up to 60 minutes multiple times during a class session.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Flexible scheduling opportunities.
• Team‑oriented work environment.
• Additional benefits and growth opportunities offered by The Guidance Center.