Preschool Teacher Assistant (25714)

Retention bonus of $1,500 for full-time employees, paid in two installments: half at 90 days and half at one year.

Schedule

Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. No weekends.

Responsibilities

• Follow all Agency policies and procedures, along with state and federal regulations pertaining to the school and students.
• Assist the teacher in devising special strategies for reinforcing material or skills based on an understanding of individual students, their needs, interests, and abilities; create and modify materials to match student abilities.
• Work with individual students or small groups of students to reinforce learning of materials to match student abilities.
• Monitor student behavior and help maintain discipline in the classroom; record behavior data as requested; assist with crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques.
• Assist in the implementation of behavior plans (BIP); record behavior data; and complete incident reports when requested.
• Monitor, supervise, and assist students during non-instructional periods within various school environments (e.g., lunch, recess/breaks, bus loading/unloading, playground, classroom, washroom, field trips, transportation, assemblies) to maintain a safe and positive learning environment.
• Assist in the implementation of Pyramid Model principles and practices in the classroom to build social and emotional competence and support children through nurturing and responsive relationships and a high-quality environment.
• Attend meetings, training, and professional learning sessions (e.g., first aid, Pyramid, CPR, emergency procedures, behavior management) to enhance professional skills and meet regulatory requirements (OCFS regulations require 30 hours in 5 areas over 2 years).
• Perform various clerical duties: maintain records of student progress; develop and file incident reports; maintain student files; check daily attendance; make copies; develop classroom displays and instructional material; maintain and operate computers, smartboards, and other classroom equipment.
• Collaborate with teachers and other staff to incorporate information provided by parents, doctors, nurses, therapists, and others to understand and meet student needs.
• Assist the teacher(s) with the administration of appropriate assessment tools, tests, and other curriculum measurements.
• Monitor safety and well-being of students; encourage positive behavior and interactions with peers.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as requested by the teacher and Director.

Physical Requirements

• Actively supervise and interact with preschool-aged children in the classroom, on the playground, and in therapeutic settings.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, lifting, carrying, and floor-based activities.
• Respond quickly to children’s safety, behavioral, educational, mobility, and self-care needs.
• Assist with classroom instruction and transitions.
• Lift and carry children, equipment, and materials up to 35 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Requirements

• Associate degree preferred.
• Ability to work with students who demonstrate serious emotional and behavioral challenges, ages 3-5.
• NYS Education Teacher Assistant Certification.

Benefits

• Health care package: medical, dental, and vision.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Paid time off.
• Holiday pay.
• 401(k) plan.
• Life insurance.
• Loan repayment assistance.
• Free training/CEU opportunities.

About Northern Rivers

At Northern Rivers Family of Services, we work together to make a difference in our clients' lives. Northern Rivers empowers children, adults, and families to change their lives and build stronger communities.