Early Childhood Classroom Aide

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Teacher Aide follows the direction of the Lead Teacher in providing a daily schedule of activities for facilitated learning experiences, unstructured play, large and small experiences, meals, and toileting. Responsible for the health and safety of children in a preschool classroom setting.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED (or actively working on one)
• Prior experience working with children and the commitment to continue training
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Able to lift up to 40 pounds

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists the Teachers in carrying out the curriculum; helps implement daily activities, assisting children with daily routines such as meals, bathroom time, preparing to go outdoors, and other transitions.
• Assists with classroom clean-up.
• Provides active supervision of children at all times, following active supervision policies and procedures.
• Communicates with classroom staff, requests assistance when unsure of a procedure or a particular situation.
• Actively engages with children; assists and redirects them as needed.
• Greets parents and children pleasantly and appropriately and children individually upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth transition into and out of the classroom.
• Follows the schedule set by Lead Teacher.
• Assists in creating and maintaining an exciting classroom learning environment for children.
• Reports any problems to the Lead Teacher or Education Manager.
• Becomes familiar with Head Start Performance Standards, NH Child Care Licensing Rules, and your center’s policies.
• Continues professional development by participating in ongoing ECE education, training programs, attending workshops/conferences as budget allows; developing professional goals to work toward each year; maintaining and updating required certifications such as First-aid/CPR and the CC Licensing required ProSolutions certifications

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality
• Excellent organization and time management skills with ability to prioritize and manage workload and deadlines
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
• Ability to work flexible hours and travel when necessary
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to the unique challenges faced by families living in poverty
• Reliable source of transportation with 100/300 liability insurance coverage
• Physical strength/endurance/mobility to perform in a standard daily required work routine (i.e., walking, sitting, lifting, and driving to various sites as required)
• Maintain and model good hygiene, appropriate dress (neat, clean, and modest), and professional behavior to parents, staff and the community
• Maintain a positive and productive attitude regarding the Head Start Program and the CAP Agency when interacting both within Head Start and with the greater community
• Demonstrate, through positive words and actions, respect for and acceptance of income eligible families

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

• Be able to communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, and families on a regular basis
• Good communication skills and ability to follow verbal and written instructions

EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

• Valid Driver's License and insured vehicle (100/300 minimum coverage) for use on the job or acceptable alternative, driving record check, criminal record check, randomized drug screening
• Head Start, Early Head Start, Childcare, and Home Visiting Programs are also subject to the following:
• Head Start and NH Child Care Licensing require a criminal record check and finger printing to be completed prior to employment.
• An initial physical examination record must be obtained upon hire, updated every three years, and kept on file with Human Resources.
• If a TB screening indicates high risk, results of a TB test must be kept on file including any treatment received.
• An initial driving record check will be conducted. Driver’s license information will also be submitted to the agency’s automobile insurance carrier.