Early Learning Support Aide

Overview Of General Responsibilities And Duties

The Head Start Early Learning Support Aide (ELSA) provides flexible, on-demand support across classrooms and center operations to ensure continuity of high-quality services for children and families. This position assists teaching staff in maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while supporting the overall flow of daily program activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Classroom Support and Child Supervision
• Aid teaching staff in maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
• Provide active supervision of children at all times in accordance with Head Start safety standards
• Support daily classroom routines, including transitions, indoor/outdoor activities, and rest periods
• Help guide children’s behavior using positive guidance and developmentally appropriate practices
• Step into classrooms as needed to maintain required staff-to-child ratios
• May be required to assist with completion of daily documentation
• Education and Learning Support
• Support the implementation of lesson plans and learning activities under the direction of the Lead Teacher or Teacher
• Aid in preparing, organizing, and maintaining classroom materials and learning environments
• Engage children in play-based learning and developmentally appropriate interactions
• Reinforce learning concepts through small group or individual support as directed
• Health, Safety, and Nutrition Support
• Follow all health and safety procedures, including sanitation, handwashing, and infection control practices
• Assist with meal and snack service, ensuring proper supervision and safe practices during mealtimes
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free classroom environment
• Monitor children for signs of illness or distress and report concerns promptly
• Center-Wide and Operational Support
• Provide coverage across classrooms and center areas based on daily staffing needs
• Assist with arrival, departure, and transitions to ensure children’s safety
• Support playground monitoring and shared spaces as assigned
• Help with general tasks such as organizing supplies, laundry, and classroom setup/cleanup
• Family and Engagement Support
• Interact with families in a warm, respectful, and professional manner
• Support family engagement activities and center events as needed
• Aid in communication efforts by helping distribute information and materials
• Maintain confidentiality and respect for all children and families
• Compliance And Professional Responsibilities
• Adhere to all Head Start Performance Standards and agency policies and procedures
• Maintain flexibility and responsiveness to changing daily assignments and program needs
• Participate in required trainings and ongoing professional development
• Maintain confidentiality of child and family information at all times
• Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to the Head Start mission

Minimum Qualifications

• Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED required. High School Graduate or General Education Degree (GED) with a minimum of EDU 119, Child Development Associate (CDA), pursuing or achieved AA or BA Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field a plus.
• North Carolina Child Care Licensing Requirements: Completion of required pre-service health and safety training, Criminal background check (NC DCDEE qualifying letter), Medical statement and TB screening as required. Must be eligible to work in a licensed child care facility in North Carolina.

Additional Requirements

• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and engage in active movement (bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and standing for extended periods)
• Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities: Basic understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practices, Ability to follow direction and work collaboratively with teaching staff and center leadership, Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact positively with children, families, and staff, Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism

Conditions Of Employment

• Background check with state and Federal law enforcement agencies required.
• Selected applicants must submit to a pre-employment substance abuse screening test and receive a negative result for the use of drugs and alcohol as specified in agency policies.
• Must submit and receive negative results for random testing of same.
• The employee must have a valid North Carolina Driver's License.
• The ability to speak Spanish is preferred but not required.