Classroom Assistant

About the Role

This position supports the developmental needs of children birth through six years of age in a group setting. Responsibilities include encouraging and participating with children in daily activities, supervising up to 12 children, following posted class schedules and lesson plans, and maintaining positive relations with families, partnership agencies, and program staff.

Responsibilities

• Assist the classroom Teacher in implementing weekly lessons and activities and monitor developmental progress of students.
• Follow posted lesson plans and classroom schedule as directed by the Teacher; participate in planning.
• Record observations for developmental progress and behavior concerns as directed by the Teacher.
• Facilitate children’s learning through participation and encouragement.
• Assist any child who needs feeding, changing, or general care.
• Supervise playground activities.
• Maintain positive, open relations with all families; greet parents by name upon arrival and departure.
• Reinforce daily successes and positive behaviors to parents and children.
• Keep records of behavior concerns and communicate them to the classroom Teacher.
• Redirect parent concerns to the classroom Teacher and/or Teacher/Director.
• Manage classroom supplies and equipment in a safe and organized manner.
• Complete attendance and food service records as required.
• Maintain the classroom environment to support smooth transitions and independent learning.
• Follow cleaning schedules and maintain neat storage areas.
• Display postings and children’s work in a neat and orderly manner.
• Lift and carry children as needed.
• Follow program guidelines for food service, cleanup, and food storage.
• Complete accident/incident reports promptly, following the chain of command.
• Support and demonstrate discipline practices in accordance with YMCA policies and KDHE regulations.
• Follow individual behavior plans for children as directed by the classroom Teacher.
• Report work-related injuries immediately and document them in writing.
• Report any suspected child abuse or neglect immediately to the Teacher/Director.
• Support toilet training and assist children with accidents.
• Help set up for meals and snacks; supervise children and participate in family-style food service.
• Sanitize tables for food service; clean tables and floors after meals or snacks.
• Assume the lead classroom role when the Teacher is absent.
• Attend all required staff meetings and trainings.
• Follow program dress code and maintain appropriate attendance.
• Maintain confidentiality on a strict need-to-know basis.
• Display and model the four Character Development aspects: Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, and Caring.
• Plan and complete in-service hours as required by KDHE and as requested by the Teacher/Director.
• Demonstrate understanding and acceptance of the program philosophy, policies, procedures, and student goals.