Assistant Teacher, 10-month, Full-Time

Full‑time position at The Guidance Center, a recognized leader providing treatment, prevention, growth and education services to over 18,000 children, adults and families annually.

About the role

The Assistant Teacher will ensure daily activities and interactions reflect the mission and goals of the program, assist with planning and implementing early childhood activities based on the Preschool HighScope curriculum, and maintain a clean, nurturing, and safe environment that supports preschool children’s growth and development.

Responsibilities

• Ensure daily activities and interactions align with the program’s mission and goals.
• Assist in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate early childhood activities using the Preschool HighScope curriculum.
• Provide and maintain a clean, nurturing, and safe environment for preschool children.
• 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, volunteers, and staff.
• Pass a physical examination and background checks prior to hire.

Requirements

• Associate Degree (AA) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field with at least 12 credit hours in Early Childhood Education, or a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate, or a state‑issued 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 of early childhood development and ability to implement developmentally appropriate curriculum practices.
• Previous experience working with preschool children in a classroom setting.
• Physical ability to lift up to 60 lb unassisted for emergency assistance.
• 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 3½ hours during part‑day sessions and 5 hours during full‑day sessions.
• Ability to transition between sitting on the floor, standing, and chair‑to‑standing at least 20 times per session.
• Capability to bend, stoop to child level, and lift for urgent or emergency situations.
• Ability to bend and stoop to address child concerns a minimum of 12 times per hour (e.g., tying shoes for safety).
• Ability to sit on the floor or in 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