Early Childhood Program Specialist 2

About the role

This position interacts with parents, practicum students, volunteers, and team members to guide the educational activities of young children enrolled in the College’s Early Learning Center. This position of Assistant Teacher in an ECEAP Classroom works directly with the Lead Teacher and under the general direction from the Center Director and Assistant Director.

Responsibilities

• Work with the lead teacher in planning and implementing environmental curriculum appropriate for the young children in your care.
• Use of Teaching Strategies GOLD and related databases as needed.
• Assisting lead teacher with paper and computer work.
• Helping Lead Teacher with preparing and possibly doing parent/teacher conferences.
• Model appropriate behavior, using developmentally appropriate communication skills and being considerate of others.
• Observe each child's development and discuss this with the lead teacher.
• Assist in ensuring that children are involved in activities suited to their immediate emotional, social, intellectual, and physical needs.
• Provide ample outdoor activity options for children, maintaining focus on children's activities.
• Assist children in taking responsibility for the classroom equipment they use.
• Aid in the preparation, presentation, and cleanup of projects and activities such as art projects, stories, songs, outdoor activities, and bulletin boards.
• Encourage language development. Foster independence and self-help skills.
• Aid in the maintenance of a healthy and safe environment.
• Function as a member of a team-oriented staff. This includes participating in staff meetings and in-service training which will occasionally include evening hours.
• Maintain 10 hours of continuing education each year.
• Communicate with the Directors and lead teacher about information and insights that affect the program's efficient cohesive functioning. This information may relate to the program, children, or parents.
• Provide oversight and guidance to Work Study Students and Practicum Students.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• ECE degree or CDA or Washington State Credentials Certification (completion of any of the three).
• 1 year of experience providing care and support in an early childhood environment.
• Proficient experience using computer programs, such as, Outlook, Word, and Excel.

Conditions of Employment

• The finalist for this position will be subject to a criminal background check prior to the start of employment.
• Tacoma Community College has no responsibility or obligation to sponsor an H-1B visa.
• In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time of hire.
• Successfully complete a portable background check (PBC) prior to employment through the Managed Education & Registry Information Tool (MERIT).
• Valid First Aid and CPR Certification.
• Valid Food Handlers Permit.
• Record of MMR vaccination.
• Record of current (in the last 12 months) Tuberculin (TB) Test.
• Ability to lift and carry 35-45 pounds, live weight and respond in emergency situations.
• Blood Bourne Pathogens training certificate.
• Regular and predictable attendance.
• The Successful Candidate Must Demonstrate a commitment to professional enrichment and learning in the early childhood education field and stay current with licensing and accreditation requirements.
• A passion for educating, caring, and nurturing children.
• An ability to remain calm and show patience and understanding with children.
• Effective communication skills with team members, visitors, all students, and parents.
• Respect and confidentiality, ethics, integrity, and sound professional judgment.
• Excellent customer service skills, including establishing, building, and maintaining internal/external customer satisfaction.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills along with following instructions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with a wide variety of personalities in a diverse work environment.
• An appreciation of diversity and the benefits of a commitment to cultural awareness and sensitivity in the workplace.
• A willingness to earn the trust, respect, and confidence of others through consistent honesty, forthrightness, and professionalism in all interactions.