Teacher Assistant, Head Start

About the role

Under the supervision of a Site Supervisor, the Teacher Assistant supports the classroom teachers of a center to carry out a high-quality early childhood program at the Cuyama Head Start Center.

Responsibilities

• When in the teacher/child ratio, maintains 100% supervision of all children, by sight and sound at all times.
• Consistently uses positive child guidance methods.
• Develops positive relationships with each child and with parents.
• Assists in meal preparation, mealtime, and clean up.
• Sets cots or mats out for nap time and assists children during napping.
• Helps to maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary classroom environment.
• Maintains the confidentiality of records and information about enrolled families.
• Attends and contributes to regular staff meetings and curriculum planning meetings.
• Helps to implement the curriculum under teacher direction, including small group, field trips, mealtimes, and one-on-one activities with children.
• Contributes to child observations and ongoing assessment.
• Assists children with toileting, diapering and/or feeding and other physical care needs.
• Is aware of all center’s children with food allergies and ensures they receive the doctor-recommended substitutions.
• Is sensitive to children with special needs.
• Functions as a positive team member and communicates effectively with families and co-workers.
• Attends parent meetings and home visits when requested.
• Performs other comparable related duties as required.

Requirements

• Child Development Teacher Assistant Permit or higher from California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
• Enrolled in a Child Development Associate credential program to be completed within two (2) years of hire.
• Knowledge of Internet software and Word Processing software.
• Must obtain and maintain a current Child Development Permit for position held.
• Must obtain and maintain a Pediatric First Aid and CPR card.
• Successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination.
• Obtain a tuberculosis clearance and clear Community Care Licensing fingerprint process.
• Provide verification of State-required vaccines upon hire for: Influenza (from August 1 to December 1), Pertussis, and Measles. Acceptable verifications include immunization record and physician statement. Exceptions: Flu can be waived by completing an annual waiver.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with disabilities desirable.
• Bilingual preferred.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Sick, vacation, and personal leave.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Fully vested retirement plan with up to 5% match.

Pay

$19.00 - $20.00 per hour, depending on the number of Early Childhood Education units completed.

Schedule

Full-time, benefited position with summers off.