Head Start Teacher Assistant 52 Wk

About the role

The Head Start Teacher Assistant at Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency (CAA) plays a crucial role in advancing our mission to expand opportunities and build self-sufficiency for our community members. This position supports the Head Start Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children.

Responsibilities

• Aid in planning and implementing daily activities and lesson plans that align with Head Start Performance Standards and help children develop socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically, including learning experiences for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate.
• Work with the Teacher to establish a welcoming, inclusive, and nurturing classroom environment that promotes positive interactions and learning, support cleanliness and safety.
• Incorporate Conscious Discipline strategies into daily interactions to promote social-emotional development and a positive classroom environment.
• Engage with children in activities that promote learning, development, and pro-social behavior.
• Assist in conducting assessments of children's development and pro-social behavior; ensure that all reports and documentation are completed accurately, with an on-time submission.
• Aid in conducting assessments of children's development and progress and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for all children.
• Provide engaging home activities/in-kind to support learning and development.
• Promote safety practices using Active Supervision indoors and outdoors.
• Observe daily health conditions of children and report results to the Teacher.
• Communicate effectively with parents and caregivers about their child's progress and needs.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences and home visits as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and licensing regulations, including ADA and child abuse program requirements.
• Attend professional development sessions to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential; may be enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree or enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of the time of hire.
• Minimum of two years’ experience working with young children, preferably in a Head Start or early childhood education setting.
• Knowledge of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Knowledge of child discipline and conflict management practices.
• Experience working effectively with diverse families and communities.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Experience with the Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD.
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Required Education, Skills and Experience:
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential; may be enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree or enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of the time of hire.
• Minimum of two years’ experience working with young children, preferably in a Head Start or early childhood education setting.
• Knowledge of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Knowledge of child discipline and conflict management practices.
• Experience working effectively with diverse families and communities.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office applications.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Experience with the Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD.
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards.

Other Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and automobile insurance must be maintained.
• Must have reliable Wi-Fi access to support offsite/remote work as needed.
• Must be willing to accommodate planned and unplanned travel to and from Head Start Center and other C-HCCAA or meeting/conference locations, including overnight and/or out of town travel.