Head Start Class Aide/Bus Aide

Class Aide/Bus Aide

The Head Start Bus Aide/Class Aide will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe transportation for the children in accordance with all state and local laws and Head Start transportation guidelines. The Bus Aide/Class Aide is also responsible for providing additional daily assistance in the Head Start classroom. A Class Aide may function as a disability aide, providing one-on-one attention to a child that has special needs or requires additional assistance. The Class Aide will work alongside the teacher and teacher aide to provide an educational environment for all children enrolled in the Head Start classroom.

Duties and responsibilities include working as a team with other teaching staff and assisting with daily activities in the Head Start center as required. The Bus Aide/Class Aide is responsible for assisting with special needs children, as well as other children in the Head Start classroom. They assist in classroom, bathroom, mealtimes, playground, and field trips. They also assist with documentation of required paperwork for children with special needs. They substitute as driver when needed, if qualified. They assist with maintaining safe driving habits and a positive atmosphere on the bus. They administer first aid in case of injury, handle all emergency situations including vehicle evacuation. They assist with maintaining current emergency information on all children and adults in the vehicle at all times. They never leave a child unattended on the vehicle at any time. They assist children and their parents on and off the bus. They make sure a responsible person is home to receive the child. They take a child into a child care center, if needed, and assure child is with responsible staff person. They are responsible for controlling all passengers on the vehicle and for ensuring that safety restraints are used for everyone. They assist with maintaining a clean and safe vehicle. They assist with conducting daily vehicle inspections, pre-trip and post trip inspections, and report all concerns to Site Supervisor. They obey all state, county and local driving regulations. They report all accidents to supervisor immediately. They assist with maintaining required documentation concerning mileage, maintenance costs, etc. They provide communication between staff and parents concerning children. They relay messages between parents and Center Staff. They participate in appropriate Head Start training. They ensure that emergency supplies are maintained and properly stored in accordance with agency policy and procedures. They ensure that communication system is tested regularly and kept in working order. They work cooperatively with all Head Start staff. They plan the most efficient route, in cooperation with other center staff, taking weather conditions into consideration, and make all designated stops unless otherwise advised by Center Staff. They understand responsibility of being a mandated reporter for Child Abuse and Neglect. They perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors.

Knowledge, skills and abilities include a high school diploma or equivalent. They possess or obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. They must begin CDA classes within six months of hire date. They have knowledge of program curriculum, developmentally appropriate practice, and related program performance standards. They relate to children and parents in a positive, constructive manner. They develop and implement classroom activities based on children's individual needs. They work well with other center staff, parents, and managers. They have knowledge of all applicable bus safety regulations and procedures. They have knowledge of all Head Start transportation guidelines and standards. They have knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance. They have knowledge of basic child development, as well as child care and guidance knowledge. They maintain conduct that promotes a positive image to staff, parents, agency and community. They obtain initial medical exam and TB assessment within 30 days of employment. They complete a medical exam and TB assessment every five years following initial employment. They pass background screen, child abuse/neglect screen, drug screen, and be subject to random drug testing. They possess emotional maturity, willingness to cooperate with the standards of the program, respect for children and adults, flexibility, patience, good personal hygiene, and physical and mental health which does not interfere with responsibilities. They have good verbal communication skills and visual ability to observe children. They are able to fulfill responsibilities under pressure, including during emergencies.