Early Childhood - Teacher Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

The Assistant Teacher is responsible for contributing to the development and implementation of lesson plans in accordance with applicable guidelines. The Assistant Teacher should be familiar with and able to work within the following standards, guidelines and regulations: NYS Core Competencies for EC Educators, NYS Prekindergarten Foundation for the Common Core, NYS Early Learning Guidelines and the NYSOCFS Child Care Regulations. The Teacher Assistant will support the classroom Teacher, center staff and administration in ensuring the educational and programmatic success of their classroom and the center. 

Responsibilities, include but are not limited to:

Program Management

• Implement, in collaboration with the Teacher, program curriculum and assessment in accordance with center approved philosophy and instructional instruments and reflect current best practices.
• Provide daily experiences and activities which stimulate physical, social- emotional, and cognitive growth and develop language and literacy skills of young children through the use of developmentally appropriate practices and curriculum that are prepared based on each child’s developmental needs.
• Use lessons, materials and activities to promote self-regulation and self-esteem in children and motivate children toward a lifetime love of learning           
• Follow daily routines to help children keep themselves and others healthy and safe such as hand washing, toileting, brushing teeth, and appropriate classroom management techniques.
• Lead planned classroom activities regularly (at least once weekly), assume role as Teacher if needed
• Follow directives from Teacher and supervisor as assigned (ex. Diapering, clean up, etc)

Assessment/Communication with Families

• Assist the Teacher with conducting developmental assessment
• Communicate on a regular basis with parents/family members to build mutual understanding, greater consistency for children and information sharing (daily board, newsletter, emails)
• Provide input and feedback to the Teacher regarding children’s needs

Compliance, Trainings and Certifications

• Ensure compliance with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services Child Care Regulations and CRCC Policies and Procedures;
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and training sessions as scheduled in order to maintain compliance with licensing requirements and best practices in early childhood (minimum of 30 hours each year in required topic areas);
• In partnership with Executive Director, keep updated, accurate records of training and credentials in order to meet licensing requirements. 
• Maintain familiarity with and adherence to all Policies and Procedures including the Parent Handbook.
• Ensure proper opening and closing procedure and maintenance of the center.

Working Relationships

• Work collaboratively with classroom team and all center staff and administration
• Maintain positive work environment by being professional, courteous and confidential per handbook
• Report directly as assigned and as needed to the Executive Director

Working Conditions

• Must be physically able to perform the job of assistant teacher of young children, including the ability to run short distances, lift up to 50 pounds, stand, bend and kneel. Must have a warm, supportive attitude toward children and the ability to handle multiple transitions. Must be reliable. Must show flexibility with regard to work schedule, receiving assignments, and adapting to changes in the program. Must be willing to accept directions & feedback regarding work performance and maintain best practices within the classroom. Must maintain a positive presence as a role model for staff/families/children. Responsible for self-regulation and working to interact with others in a positive and productive manner upholding mission and vision of CRCC as well as all policies and procedures outlined in the staff handbook and family handbook. 

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED  
• At least one year of experience working with and caring for young children

Skills

• Excellent written, oral and interpersonal skills. Strong computer skills. Organized and willing to adopt center systems for record keeping, budgets and planning.

• Position Title:            Assistant Teacher

  Work Hours:              30-40 hours FT or 15-30 hours PT, non-exempt

  Salary Range:           $19.55 per hour

  Reports to:                 Early Childhood Manager