Teacher Assistant - Trauma Informed

Assist the instructional program with specific responsibility for supporting the supervision, care, and instruction of students with complex needs in the educational classroom setting. Help implement plans for instruction, monitor student academics and behavior, and provide information to appropriate program personnel.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Lead Teacher to establish and maintain a safe, nurturing environment that promotes physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of young children.
• Assist in creating a positive classroom environment by modeling appropriate behavioral interventions, reinforcing positive behaviors, and facilitating social interactions.
• For assigned child(ren), implement educational, therapeutic, and behavioral plans under the direct supervision of the Childcare and ECEAP Services Program Manager.
• Support goals, social skill building, and participation in classroom routines, small and large group activities.
• Work with the child to increase functional communication through use of PECS, sign language, or vocal strategies.
• Prioritize self-regulation skills while teaching the child to regulate their own emotions.
• Develop supportive tools such as individual schedules, social stories, and personalized reinforcement strategies.
• Participate in regular supervision and communicate directly with the Program Manager regarding behavior management plans, treatment, and any questions about communication with coworkers and families.
• Assist with cleanliness and safety of the classroom and outdoor play areas.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, parent meetings, in-service days, and supervision.
• Report suspected incidents of child abuse to the Program Manager and follow mandated reporting protocols.
• Implement all Washington State WAC for childcare centers and complete required training in a timely fashion.
• Observe confidentiality in all dealings related to the program, staff, and families.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma and Washington State ECE Certificate (47 credits) or on a professional development plan, or Child Development Associate (CDA) credential awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition (CDA obtained before 2005 qualifies).
• 2 years’ experience working in an Early Learning setting and/or specialized early care therapeutic setting with children ages birth to five who have experienced abuse, neglect, or were born drug-affected.
• 2 years’ experience identifying and reporting child abuse to proper authorities as outlined in Washington State laws.
• First Aid/CPR Certification.
• Cleared by DEL Fingerprints Background Check.
• Blood borne pathogens Certification.
• Food Handler’s card.

Skills

• Strong behavioral management skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member.
• Ability to represent the agency professionally within the community.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly requires standing, walking, bending, or performing other work requiring low physical exertion (80% of the time).
• May require physically assisting a child exhibiting behavior problems to ensure safety (20% of the time).
• May require sitting on the floor or in small chairs.
• Ability to drive with adequate vision.

Pay

$18 to $22 hourly, based on experience.

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Benefits

• 7 paid holidays, 1 paid Personal Day, and 15 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year.
• Health insurance including medical and prescription coverage, with optional dental and vision insurance plans (majority of premiums paid by Catholic Charities).
• Retirement 403(b) Plan: employee contributions commence upon employment; Catholic Charities contributes 2% of monthly income and matches up to 4% of employee contributions following 6 months of employment.
• Basic Life Insurance paid 100% by Catholic Charities.
• Flexible Spending Account eligibility following 6 months of employment.
• Education Assistance Program reimbursing up to $5,250 per year for approved continuing education after 6 months of employment.
• Additional voluntary insurances including supplemental life, accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D), critical illness, long-term disability, accident, and ID theft.
• Employee Assistance Program includes 3 counseling sessions per year, legal consultations, financial coaching, and other wellbeing tools.
• Annual longevity awards begin at 5 years of employment.