Head Start - Teacher Assistants/Aide (AP26-045)

About the role

The SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start Program is committed to ensuring children and families are engaged with highly qualified staff who have the heart, spirit, and knowledge base to support the achievement of children and families. Head Start Teacher Assistant positions are nine-month (August - May), full-time positions, and serve children between the ages of three and five years of age. Early Head Start Teacher Assistant positions are twelve-month, full-time positions, and serve children between the ages of six weeks and thirty-six months of age. SIUE Head Start centers are located in Belleville, Cahokia, Caseyville, East St. Louis, Lebanon, and Lovejoy, Illinois. Final center assignments will be decided upon hire based on programmatic needs.

Responsibilities

• Support the head teacher in creating a safe, loving, developmentally appropriate environment that promotes emotional/social growth and school readiness.
• Assist with developmentally appropriate instructional plans and engage with all children, including those with specialized needs.
• Promote positive behavior management in the classroom.
• Support developmental screenings, ongoing assessments, and recording of outcome data to inform future instruction.
• Participate in home visits and parent–teacher conferences as requested by the teacher.

Requirements

• Average of 20 hours per week of supervised work experience in a child care setting.
• Completion of a state-approved early childhood education program or equivalent.
• Current CPR certification.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or Child Development.
• Possess a CDA credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential, OR currently enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, having already completed at least half (50%) of the coursework.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of child development theories and practices.
• Experience with child safety and health protocols.

Benefits

SIUE provides a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement savings options. Additionally, SIUE offers a generous paid time off policy, flexible spending accounts, and a variety of wellness programs.

Pay

Level 1: Monthly $2,562.95-$2,796.20
Level 2: Monthly $2,500.02-$2,549.20

Schedule

Head Start Teacher Assistant positions are nine-month (August - May), full-time positions, and Early Head Start Teacher Assistant positions are twelve-month, full-time positions.