Assistant Teacher (10-month, Full-Day)

About the role

The Guidance Center is a leading organization dedicated to providing comprehensive services to children, adults, and families since 1958. With 25 programs serving over 14,200 individuals annually, we focus on fostering development, resilience, and well-being.

Responsibilities

• Ensure daily activities and interactions align with the program's mission and goals.
• Plan and implement early childhood activities based on the Preschool HighScope curriculum.
• Maintain a clean, nurturing, and safe environment conducive to children's growth and development.
• Adhere to and comply with The Guidance Center's policies, including Office of Head Start Performance Standards and local/state agency policies.
• Show cultural competency and sensitivity towards diverse backgrounds, needs, and experiences of children, families, and staff.
• Pass physical examination and background checks prior to employment.

Requirements

• Average of 12 credit hours in Early Childhood Education or a related field, or a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate.
• An Associate Degree (AA) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field, or enrollment in a program leading to an associate or baccalaureate degree.
• 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 during emergencies.
• A nonjudgmental approach reflecting cultural competency and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Ability to handle crisis situations appropriately.
• Standing for 3-1/2 hours per part-day class session and 5 hours per full-day class session.
• Walking between sitting on the floor and standing, and chair sitting to standing at least 20 times per session.
• Bending and stooping to child level and lifting for urgent situations.
• Sitting on the floor or on a child-size chair for up to 60 minutes multiple times during class sessions.

Benefits

The Guidance Center offers a competitive salary, flexible scheduling opportunities, and a supportive team environment.