Teacher Aide

Help Children Learn, Grow, and Thrive in a Safe and Supportive EnvironmentDo you have a passion for early childhood education and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children? Are you looking for a rewarding role where you can support learning, encourage growth, and help build strong foundations for lifelong success?Join our Head Start team and become part of a caring, collaborative classroom environment dedicated to supporting every child's physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development. As a Teacher Assistant, you will work alongside Co-Teachers to create safe, nurturing, and engaging learning experiences that help children reach their full potential.Why You'll Love Working HereCompetitive Pay (Level 18) Starting at $15.10/hourOutstanding Work-Life Balance Full-time schedule: 40 hours per week, 49 weeks per year No evenings or weekends required Paid holidays and breaks Supportive, team-based environmentExceptional Benefits Health, dental, and vision insurance FREE life insurance 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) 14 paid holidays annually Paid inclement weather days Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities Career growth within Early Childhood EducationWhat You'll DoIn this role, you'll support the classroom team by:Helping establish a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning environment that encourages exploration and growthAssisting Co-Teachers with lesson planning, classroom strategies, documentation, and developmentally appropriate activitiesSupporting children's physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development through positive interaction and guidancePromoting curriculum goals, including educational, social, and emotional learning objectivesIncorporating nutrition, health, and self-care practices into daily classroom routinesBuilding positive relationships with children and families to encourage engagement in learningPreparing classroom materials and ensuring readiness for daily activities under the direction of Co-TeachersMaintaining ongoing communication with staff, supervisors, parents, and service providersMaintaining confidentiality in all matters related to children, families, and staffParticipating in ongoing professional development, including trainings, workshops, conferences, and courseworkReporting suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with mandated reporter requirements and program proceduresSupporting additional duties as assigned by the SupervisorWhat We're Looking ForHigh school diploma or GED requiredAbility to enroll in and complete a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential program within 18 months of hireStrong verbal and written communication skillsEnjoyment and comfort working with young childrenAbility to maintain confidentiality and uphold professional standardsCPR and First Aid certification required or ability to obtain and maintain certificationAbility to take initiative, exercise independent judgment, and work effectively as part of a teamStrong interpersonal skills and commitment to teamworkWillingness to support program operations, including classroom and center-wide needsDouglass Community Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and Drug-Free Workplace.