Govt. Education - Year-Round Teacher Aide I or II

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Teacher Aide, under the direction of the Child Care Center Manager, assists the Instructors in all aspects of the classroom operations, including performing various support and child supervision services to assist in the instruction and development of young children.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (includes, but is not limited to, the following)

• Assists in all phases of classroom operations, including but not limited to setting up and preparing classroom activities and working with groups of children.
• Assists in implementing quality early childhood education experiences, following written lesson plans incorporating reading, writing, math, science, language, culture, computers (when available), and other curriculum-related areas.
• Instructs and assists children individually or in small or large groups to help them master skills and reinforce learning concepts.
• Conducts and records ongoing daily observations and anecdotal notes in developing individualized teaching activities and maintaining Individual Child Portfolios.
• Monitors and carries out behavior plans and interventions as determined by classroom staff, on-site consultants, and the child's parents.
• Assumes responsibility for classroom operations in the absence of the Instructors.
• Works with special needs children to ensure that IEP/IFSP needs are met.
• Performs record-keeping functions such as daily signing in and out of children and meal attendance.
• Communicates daily with families in a positive manner through notes, telephone, and personal contact about their child's daily activities, social-emotional well-being, and health needs to foster a positive home-school connection.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES: (includes, but is not limited to, the following)

• Evacuates children during emergency and monthly drills.
• Maintains and sanitizes work areas by performing light janitorial work, which includes sweeping, mopping, dusting, cleaning the bathroom, cleaning tables, toys, equipment, etc.
• Promotes everyday hygiene opportunities for children (tooth brushing, toileting, hand washing, etc.) each day by modeling.
• Administers personal care to children, including diaper changing and toilet training.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings and training.
• Monitors children on the bus while on field trips or during emergency evacuations.

CONTACTS:

Immediate peers, supervisor/manager, customers, outside vendors/suppliers, and Tribal community.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Position heavy with the maximum lifting of 100 pounds and frequent lifting/carrying up to 50 pounds. Physical factors include constant walking, standing, stooping, kneeling, crawling, reaching, use of hearing, smell, near/mid/far vision, depth perceptions, color and field of vision and bending; frequent carrying/lifting and handling; and occasional sitting, pushing/ pulling, climbing, reaching, travel and typing. Working conditions include constant exposure to noise, frequent exposure to weather, and occasional exposure to wet/humidity. Potential hazards include constant client contact and occasional exposure to chemicals, infectious exposure, needles/syringes, computer, medical, and other equipment use. Must obtain an annual TB Test. Must be in good physical health as determined by a physician.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. required.

Experience: Experience working with children and children with special needs preferred.

Certification/License: Must be able to obtain Child Development Association Certification (CDA) within two years of hire. Must be able to obtain CPR/First Aid certification within one year of hire. Will be required to undergo and successfully pass a background check. Must maintain good moral character standing. Must comply with the Sault Tribe’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy which may include random drug tests .

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge and understanding of the educational, social, nutrition, health, and overall basic needs of children 0-5 years old are preferred. Knowledge of the Anishinabe Culture and language is preferred. Must have excellent public relations/customer service skills, exhibit a friendly and positive attitude, and establish and maintain effective communication with co-workers, supervisors, guests, and volunteers. Must be able to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with supervisory personnel, coworkers, and the general public. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Must be able to work a flexible schedule. Must have the ability to be flexible and adaptable to meet children’s needs daily. Must have strong interpersonal skills. Must maintain confidentiality. Native American preferred.

This job description outlines the general scope and level of responsibilities associated with the position. It is not intended to be an employment contract, nor does it represent a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, or requirements. The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians reserves the right to modify, add, reassign, or combine job duties or positions, in whole or in part, at any time.