Teacher Assistant Preschool
About This Role
Join YWCA of Hartford Region in Hartford, CT as a Teacher Assistant Preschool working with Preschool (3–5). The role calls for a willingness to earn a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, with employer support and offers $20/Hr to qualified childcare professionals.
Join Our Team as a Teacher Assistant:
The ideal candidate will assist the Head Teacher in providing a supportive, respectful, safe, and healthy environment for children enrolled in YWCA Hartford Region Early Learning Centers. This role involves implementing engaging activities that cater to the diverse needs and interests of a large group of children, fostering their growth and development.
What You'll Do
- Essential Functions of the Job:
- Curriculum Delivery
- Assists in developing and delivering a comprehensive curriculum that meets the physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of each child, promoting their interests and abilities;
- Collaborates with the Head Teacher to establish short and long-term goals for the improvement of class programs;
- Implements individualized support plans to meet the unique needs of each child;
- Engages directly with children through various activities, promoting their social, emotional, and cognitive growth;
- Classroom Management
- Contributes to maintaining a well-organized, safe, and inviting classroom environment that adheres to accreditation standards;
- Supports children in developing self-regulation skills through positive guidance and redirection;
- Ensures adherence to YWCA Hartford Region’s Positive Guidance Policies;
- Assists with daily tasks such as snack preparation, clean-up, and monitoring bathroom facilities;
- Fosters positive relationships with parents through regular and responsive communication;
- Assumes daily classroom responsibilities in the absence of the Head Teacher;
- Compliance and Reporting
- Adheres to established protocols for reporting suspected child abuse and neglect in accordance with OEC and YWCA Hartford Region’s policies;
- Assists the Head Teacher in completing developmental observations and assessments as required;
- Reports child-related incidents and completes Incident Reports within 24 hours;
- Utilizes accountability and ratio sheets to ensure the safety and well-being of children, adhering to licensing and health standards;
- Complies with CACFP procedures and documentation requirements;
- Maintains student confidentiality according to YWCA Hartford Region policies;
- Reports and documents work-related injuries to the Site Manager immediately;
- Attends Sanctuary Training and other job-related trainings to stay up-to-date with best practices;
- Performs other duties as assigned by the Head Teacher.
- Education:
- A High School Diploma or GED.
- Experience:
- Demonstrated ability to develop engaging exhibits and activities for the classroom;
- Basic knowledge of child development principles; and
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Certifications and Licenses:
- CPR/First Aid certification or certification within two months of employment.
- Demonstrates a commitment to building professional relationships with stakeholders;
- Shows an understanding of others and their perspectives;
- Engages in personal and professional development;
- Examines and challenges one’s assumptions and attitudes;
- Maintains productive work relationships by considering multiple perspectives;
- Recognizes the importance of life experiences in the workplace;
- Effectively resolves conflicts;
- Promotes a respectful work environment where concerns are addressed effectively.
- Previous experience in a similar role or related field;
- Relevant coursework or training in early childhood education;
- Skills in program planning, implementation, and evaluation;
- Familiarity with YWCA Hartford Region’s policies and procedures;
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills;
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment;
- Capacity to adapt to changing situations and priorities;
- Willingness to learn and grow with the organization.
Requirements
Schedule
This is a full-time exempt position. Standard hours of operation are Monday–Friday, 6:45 am – 6:15 pm. The work schedule and hours will be defined by the Department Head or direct supervisor. Due to the nature of the work, some evening hours may be required.