Early Childhood Assistant Teacher

About Us

Since 1972, Metropolitan Ministries has been providing life-changing solutions for those who are homeless and at risk of becoming homeless in Tampa Bay. We are a grassroots, donor, and volunteer-fueled community nonprofit serving families in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk and Hernando counties with compassion, practical help, and a willingness to make a huge difference.

About the role

The Early Childhood Assistant Teacher is responsible for supporting the planning and implementation of age-appropriate educational activities and curriculum for the assigned age group.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate curriculum using best practices and the highest standards of care.
• Ensure all classroom activities align with CREATE’s policies and with Metropolitan Ministries' mission, vision, and guiding values, prioritizing the safety and well-being of children and families.
• Assist the Lead Teacher in developing weekly lesson plans and preparing daily activities that align with the lesson objectives.
• Submit completed lesson plans to the supervisor biweekly.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of each child’s progress using an appropriate tracking data system.
• Communicate promptly with supervisors and parents regarding health concerns, special needs, unusual behaviors, or incidents.
• Ensure the safety, security, and cleanliness of all CREATE classrooms and playground equipment.
• Complete monthly safety and maintenance checklists and submit them at the end of each month.
• Administer and score assessments within the first 30 days of a child’s enrollment.
• Report any deficiencies identified during screenings to the Parent Support Specialist and Supervisor.
• Adhere strictly to all state childcare licensing guidelines and NECPA accreditation standards.
• Participate in ongoing training as required by childcare state licensing and accreditation.
• Participate in ongoing training as required and complete Sanctuary training to implement its principles as part of the program culture.
• Meet personal goals and actively contribute to the achievement of team and organizational targets/goals as stated on the KPI and in the annual plan.
• Attend required staff meetings and on-going trainings.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required, and a CDA credential is preferred.
• Candidates must complete 40 hours of DCF training in early childhood education and 5 hours of literacy training.
• A minimum of one year of experience working as an Early Childhood Teacher Assistant is required.

Skills

• Understanding of poverty, a high degree of maturity, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work and communicate with low socio-economic and diverse parents and clients professionally and diplomatically.
• Ability to plan, organize, and conduct early childhood education programs.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to use a computer and related software.
• Ability to work effectively with others within a multi-disciplinary team framework, including staff and volunteers.
• Ability to supervise and direct volunteers.
• Demonstrates maturity and sensitivity to issues of faith, culture, and other sources of diversity.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Hearing and speaking ability, which allows for effective oral communication of information.
• Physical, emotional, and spiritual stamina to handle job-related issues and stress.

Other

• Must demonstrate legal authorization to work in the United States.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in English.
• Must pass required background pre-employment screening.

Benefits

• Group health, vision, and dental coverage at affordable rates, including family coverage options.
• Preventative care is 100% covered (free) on all plans.
• PTO offered to full-time and part-time employees: 11 days of PTO and 10 paid holidays annually.
• Option to participate in the 401K plan with employer match.
• $15,000 in employee Life Insurance paid for by Metropolitan Ministries.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Option to participate in supplemental group insurance plans at affordable rates.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Training and career development.
• Discounted membership at the YMCA.

Pay

$16.00 per hour.