Special Services Assistant

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Services Assistant to assist in the implementation of a comprehensive child development program while supporting children, families, and classroom staff through positive behavioral strategies and evidence-based practices.

• Assist in the implementation of a comprehensive child development program.
• Engage in ongoing assessment.
• Promote social and emotional development of children while maintaining appropriate classroom discipline using positive guidance techniques.
• Supervise and interact with children in all daily activities at all times.
• Initiate the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process for children with disabilities.
• Assist in recording and maintaining documentation and submitting reports as required.
• Participate in meetings and required trainings as directed by the management team.
• Provide positive behavioral strategies for children and families.
• Ensure behavioral management systems are implemented in consultation with the disabilities/mental health manager and the mental health consultant.
• Model research and evidence-based procedures for children’s behaviors.
• Develop positive, nurturing relationships with children and families.
• Provide positive emotional support and implement strategies to diminish challenges in the classroom.
• Provide continuous modeling and guidance on positive behavior intervention strategies and social skill building with children.
• Assist children in their emotional, cognitive, and social development.
• Maintain accurate records/files and document interactions and services.
• Assist in classroom and playground duties.
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
• Observe, assess, refer, and evaluate each child’s progress in the assigned classroom.
• Assist in planning and implementing classroom activities based on individual needs to advance physical and intellectual competence.
• Welcome families to participate in classroom, home, and community learning activities and encourage volunteer participation in the program.
• Encourage parents, families, and community members to support the program through gifts of time, goods, and/or monetary donations to ensure program local match (in-kind).

Education Requirements:

• Minimum of High school diploma or GED
• Must participate in specialized trainings as determined by the program.

Experience Requirements:

• Knowledge of adverse childhood experiences (ACES) and the impact on children/families.
• Knowledge of positive behavioral support systems, behavior management, and early intervention.
• Knowledge of child development and early childhood education.
• Ability to communicate openly with community resources, professionals, staff, parents, and children.
• Evidence of emotional stability and maturity and must be flexible and open to change.
• Basic computer knowledge required.
• A natural concern, empathy, and enjoyment of Head Start children and their families.
• Able to remain calm and supportive when faced with challenging behavior.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Must obtain a pre-employment physical and screen for communicable diseases.
• Must obtain First Aid and CPR and keep updated.
• Must agree to pre-employment background check
• Demonstrate a willingness to continue professional development.

Education: Prefer degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related degree or credential.

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority, Inc. Head Start / Early Head Start Program serves more than 700 children ages 0-5 years in eight counties in East TN: Blount, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Monroe, Sevier and Union. Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities. They also receive support to access free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing outdoors in a safe setting. Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities.

Our employees have access to:

· Up to 14 paid holidays per year

· Sick leave and Personal time

· Option to participate in State of Tennessee 401(k) savings plan

· Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System

· Group Health Insurance partially paid by the agency with other insurance products available.