Teacher Assistant Head Start 3-5
Mary Crane Center · Chicago, IL · 8 mo ago
TrainingFull-time
What You'll Do
- Support Learning & Play
- Help implement engaging, age-appropriate activities using Creative Curriculum and Head Start standards
- Supervise and interact with children during classroom time, meals, and play
- Model respectful, positive behavior and guide children with gentle, consistent discipline
- Promote family-style dining and healthy habits
- Observe & Celebrate Growth
- Absorb developmental assessments using tools like Creative Curriculum Checklists and Ages & Stages Questionnaires
- Capture learning moments through observation notes, photos, and child portfolios
- Collaborate with Families
- Help coordinate and attend parent-teacher conferences and home visits
- Communicate daily with parents about classroom routines, activities, and their child’s progress
- Support families in engaging with the program and advocating for their child
- Keep Our Classrooms Thriving
- Assist with planning and preparing lesson materials
- Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized learning space
- Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily
- Be a Team Player
- Work closely with the Lead Teacher, Site Director, and other staff members
- Mentor volunteers, teacher aides, and foster grandparents
- Attend trainings, team meetings, and agency events as required
- Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, OR 60 credit hours of which 15 hours are in early childhood
- Gateways ECE Credential Level 4
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal); bilingual in Spanish preferred
- Passion for early childhood development and family engagement
- Collaborative, flexible, and open to feedback
- Organized, detail-oriented, and committed to high-quality work
- Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and work on the floor with children
- Willingness to travel locally for home visits and meetings as needed
- Mission-driven work with real impact on children and families
- Professional growth opportunities including CDA support, in-services, and workshops
- Collaborative culture where your voice matters
- Supportive leadership and experienced mentors
- Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options available)
- Paid time off
- Other employee wellness programs
- We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability
- To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x2866