Head Start Instructional Assistant

Primary Purpose:


To comply with all federal guidelines (Head Start Performance Standards, Transmittal Notices, etc.) and local Head Start/Early Head Start policies in providing children and families with Head Start/Early Head Start services. To assist teachers in providing children with a learning environment and varied experiences which will help them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development and toward the overall goal of social competence.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification

• High School diploma or GED required
• Child Development Associate (CDA) or willingness to obtain within one year required
• Current first aid/ CPR certification or willingness to obtain required
• Clear background history checks at the local, state, and federal levels required (Background checks are conducted by the ESC at no cost to the applicant.)

Skills

• Experience working with young children preferred
• Loving, nurturing disposition toward young children required
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred
• Valid Texas driver's license or other reliable mode of transportation during work hours required
• Proof of current automobile liability insurance required
• Ability to follow instructions and uphold the high standards of the Head Start quality of care according to the Head Start Performance Standards
• Moderate technology skills required
• Willing to uphold the Head Start Standards of Conduct required
• Must be service driven with the ability to assume personal responsibility and maintain a positive outlook
• Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, possess the ability to work as a team player, enjoy a variety of activities, and possess organizational abilities

Working Conditions:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom and nursery equipment such as toys, playgrounds, multiple-rider strollers, etc.; personal computer and printer
• Posture: Must be physically able to tolerate frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Must be physically able to participate in moderate to high levels of physical activity, such as, but not limited to, standing for moderate to lengthy periods of time, frequent squatting and sitting on the floor, frequent walking, and overhead reaching, occasional driving
• Lifting: Must be physically able to tolerate regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds or more)
• Environment: Must be physically able to tolerate cleaning products and sanitizers, work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; frequent exposure to bodily fluids; tolerate occasional travel between work sites
• Mental Demands: Must be able to work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress and self-control in the presence of children
• Regular Attendance is an essential function

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Daily Standards:

1. Cooperates with and assists teacher with classroom operations
2. Interacts with children during all indoor and outdoor activities
3. Must provide program with a current health physical
4. Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities
5. Assists with diapering and toilet training using Early Head Start/Head Start approved procedures
6. Actively supervises and interacts with children during all activities
7. Uses calm, non-threatening voice
8. Demonstrates respect for each child and accepts differences in children
9. Corrects through conversation and models expected behavior
10. Follows safety and environment regulations
11. Models correct speech patterns and vocabulary for children
12. Maintains a safe playground environment
13. Substitutes in classes as needed
14. Follows teacher's instructions for lesson plans
15. Provides emergency medical care as needed
16. Eats one meal daily with children (sharing the same menu) and assists children with clean up
17. Monitors the appropriate approved persons for child pick up
18. Cleans and sanitizes materials throughout the day and completes required documentation
19. Complies with center policies
20. Supports program policies and changes
21. Completes and submits all forms by due dates
22. Attends home visits as needed
23. Obtains and maintains first aid/CPR certifications
24. Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities
25. Performs duties that directly and/or indirectly impact student performance
26. Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the ESC safety program
27. Performs professional responsibilities as required by ESC policies, processes, and procedures
28. Incorporates appropriate technology in daily work and exhibits continual growth in technologies as outlined by supervisor
29. Performs other duties as assigned

Professional Standards:

1. Engages in respectful goal-oriented partnerships with families to promote student success and family well-being
2. Maintains confidentiality of child and family information
3. Interacts in a positive manner with parents and treats them with respect
4. Acts as primary caregiver in the teacher's absence
5. Attends all required PLCs/staff development and meetings
6. Attends parent meetings as required
7. Completes appropriate Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential within the timeline designated by Head Start/Early Head Start CDA advisor; maintains current Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential once obtained
8. Complies with ESC personnel policies regarding absences and tardiness
9. Collects and analyzes information for improvement
10. Maintains a professional level of confidentiality regarding all ESC matters
11. Supports the mission, goals, and objectives of the ESC strategic plan
12. Manages time, calendar, and job responsibilities to meet deadlines