Early Childhood Teacher's Aide

About the role

DREAM, originally founded in 1991 as Harlem RBI, serves more than 2,500 youth annually across East Harlem and the South Bronx through seven DREAM Charter Schools and community programs. Our mission is to create lifelong learners who are prepared to achieve their vision of success.

Responsibilities

• Support the Lead Teacher and Assistant Teacher in planning and implementing classroom activities and lessons;
• Foster a safe, sanitary, warm, and inclusive environment;
• Work one-on-one with students who may require extra assistance, ensuring they receive personalized attention to meet their specific needs;
• Communicate observations to teachers to support family engagement and student learning;
• Supervise and aid students during transitions, meals, and naptime, following classroom policies and health and safety protocols;
• Help maintain accurate records;
• Absorb and provide staff coverage as needed;
• Assist with small group activities to reinforce lesson concepts and provide additional support to students as needed;
• Participate in professional development and coaching sessions;
• Obtain and maintain certification in CPR and first aid certifications;
• Perform additional duties related to the running of the school as assigned.

Qualifications

• 18 years of age or older by the start date for the role, required;
• A High School Diploma or equivalent, required;
• One of the following is required: 1) Have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential; 2) Have an Associate’s Degree or Bachelor’s Degree, 3) Are currently enrolled in a program that will lead to an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s degree, or 4) Will enroll in and commit to completing a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential within 12 months of hire;
• At least 1-year experience working with young children in a school or daycare setting, highly preferred;
• Bilingual (English/Spanish), preferred;
• Dedicated, excited, and passionate about teaching and learning with young children;
• Strong work ethic and solutions-oriented mindset, with a desire and ability to help others and solve problems;
• Great teamwork, interpersonal communication, and organizational skills;
• Reflective and willing to develop and increase capacity;
• A strong belief in the mission and values of DREAM, including the belief that all students can succeed, and a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of our students, families, and community;
• A physical exam, fingerprinting, and a federal background check are required for this position.

Physical Demands of the Position

Frequent movement, including standing, walking, sitting, and transitioning between floor and standing positions.
Ability to lift, carry, push, pull or position items up to 50 pounds.
Ability to engage in activities at child level, including bending, kneeling, crouching, and sitting on the floor.
Ability to receive and respond to oral communication with students and adults in both quiet and active environments.
Ability to reach with hands and arms and use hands and fingers to handle objects and operate tools, computers, and/or controls.