Classroom Aide

About This Role

Join Ozarks Technical Community College Early Childhood Education Center in Springfield, MO as a Classroom Aide working with Preschool (3–5). The role calls for completed early childhood education college credits and offers $15 – $15.50/Hr to qualified childcare professionals.

What You'll Do

• Supervise preschool children in a safe, clean, well-arranged, and enriching educational environment, working closely with the Lead Teacher and/or Assistant Teacher.
• Maintain the classroom environment when the Lead Teacher and/or Assistant Teacher are not present, ensuring the continued well-being and safety of the children.
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher and/or Assistant Teacher in directing practicum students, work-study assistants, and classroom volunteers, promoting a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
• Work with the Lead Teacher and/or Assistant Teacher to prepare the learning environment, set up learning centers, and prepare necessary materials and supplies.
• Communicate effectively with families in collaboration with the Lead Teacher and/or Assistant Teacher, building strong relationships within the preschool environment.
• Demonstrate professional conduct, a positive attitude, and a supportive culture, treating all children, families, and colleagues with dignity and respect.
• Foster positive relationships with colleagues and parents, promoting a collaborative and supportive preschool environment.
• Work collaboratively with the ECEC Director and ECD Department Chair to manage the daily operations of the Center and promote the Early Childhood Development Program.
• Maintain confidentiality of children, parents/guardians, fellow staff members, and practicum students, as well as records and all information.
• Adhere to the policies of the program, including licensing and accreditation guidelines, communicable diseases, first aid and medical emergency, emergency procedures, mandated reporting procedures, center dress code and professionalism, and more.
• Exhibit exemplary attendance and punctuality, adhering to college policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including attending college functions, serving on committees, and attending community events.
• Assist the Lead Teacher and/or Assistant Teacher with classroom curriculum and lesson plan implementation, ensuring a cohesive and engaging learning experience.
• Welcome ECEC children to the school environment, assisting with their arrival and engaging them in activities of interest.
• Exercise initiative by contributing to general housekeeping tasks and maintaining a clean and organized classroom environment.

Requirements

• Ability to pass a tuberculosis test (or provide proof of current test or risk assessment).
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or twelve college credit hours in the early childhood field from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning.
• Ability to be approved by the state Family Care Safety Registry and the Comprehensive Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
• Pass or provide transfer documentation of a medical examination, as required by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
• Ability to work well with others.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to use information technology for professional productivity (such as Microsoft Office Suite).
• Ability to perform physical activities and lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.

Nice to Have

• An Associate degree in early childhood development or early childhood education from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning would be beneficial.
• Classroom experience in an early childhood or early elementary setting is highly desirable.
• Experience working in a child development laboratory setting at an institution of higher learning would be an asset.