Teacher Assistant at Meadow Lane

About the Role

The Teacher Assistant supports the Teacher in providing a nurturing and educational environment for young children enrolled in the Head Start program. This role assists in the implementation of a developmentally appropriate curriculum, fosters positive relationships with children and families, and ensures a safe and healthy learning environment. The Teacher Assistant plays a crucial role in ensuring the classroom operates smoothly and that each child’s needs are met.

Responsibilities

• Classroom Support
  • Assist the Teacher in planning and implementing daily educational activities and lesson plans that promote social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
  • Support individualized instruction to meet the diverse needs of all children.
  • Support the implementation of the Head Start curriculum and ensure adherence to program standards.
  • Help prepare and maintain a clean, organized, and inviting classroom environment.
• Child Supervision and Interaction
  • Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being.
  • Engage with children in a positive, nurturing, and age-appropriate manner.
  • Engage with children through play, conversation, and instructional activities to promote their development.
  • Facilitate small group activities and one-on-one interactions to enhance learning experiences.
  • Assist children with personal hygiene, including handwashing, toileting, and dressing.
• Individualized Child Support
  • Observe and record children’s progress and behaviors.
  • Assist in identifying each child’s individual needs and provide tailored support as directed by the Teacher.
  • Participate in the development and implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for children with special needs.
• Parent and Family Engagement
  • Build positive relationships with families and communicate regularly about their child’s progress and needs.
  • Support family involvement in classroom activities and program events.
  • Assist in conducting home visits and parent-teacher conferences as needed.
• Health and Safety
  • Ensure that health and safety standards are met, including proper sanitation procedures and emergency preparedness.
  • Administer basic first aid and follow protocols for illness and injury.
  • Assist with meal and snack preparation and monitor children’s dietary needs.
  • Act as the lead staff when carrying out Emergency Bus Procedures when necessary.
• Professional Development
  • Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
  • Attend staff meetings and contribute to collaborative planning and decision making.
  • Stay informed about early childhood education best practices and Head Start and EEC policies.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or MA EEC Lead Teacher Certification or willingness to obtain within two years of hire.
  • Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Experience
  • Previous experience working with young children, preferably in an early childhood education setting.
  • Experience with the Head Start program preferred.

Schedule

This is a full-time position, 30 hours per week.