Head Start Teacher Aide

Early Childhood Educator

Assist in implementing age-appropriate curriculum. Encourage self-esteem and independence for the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of each child. Ensure that health, safety, and nutritional education is integrated into the overall curriculum planning. Provide for the care, supervision, and safety of center children, keeping classroom and equipment clean, neat, and orderly. Demonstrate understanding for the needs of children and families from economically and culturally diverse backgrounds. Puts into practice a program consistent with Head Start Performance Standards and NAEYC criteria. Implements program in a manner consistent with EASTCONN mission, vision, code of ethical conduct, policies and procedures. Have the physical ability and stamina to interact with children for up to 6-8 hours a day; e.g. to move and react quickly, to lift and/or carry a child, to sit on the floor or use child size furniture, participate in field trips and playground activities, etc. Understand and implement Office of Early Childhood licensing regulations. Experience working with families to support early learning. Ensure children are developing sound health and nutritional habits in daily routines and in curriculum through modeling. Share in meal and/or snack responsibilities as needed per site. This may include preparation, clean-up, and/or food requests to the Nutrition Consultant. Read, write, and communicate effectively. Participate in workshops, training, and professional development, as assigned. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Minimum of a CDA (Child Development Associates) Certificate plus two years relevant work experience.

• If the candidate does not have a CDA or 12 ECE credits, he/she will be put on an education plan. The candidate must acquire the appropriate credentials within 18 months of hire.
• Applicant will be responsible to start the application/enrollment process within 6 months of employment. (timeline will be noted on education plan)
• Candidate will be accountable to pay for the expenses, unless scholarship is available, as well as maintain the validity of the CDA.

Working Conditions: Work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team.

EASTCONN offers a competitive benefits package for eligible employees that may include:

• Medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
• Participation in the Connecticut State Partnership Health Plan (where applicable)
• Retirement plan participation
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and personal leave (as applicable)
• Paid holidays
• Employer paid life insurance and voluntary employee paid supplemental life insurance available
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement (where applicable)

Eligibility for benefits is based on position and scheduled hours.

At EASTCONN, we believe that diversity is key to our success. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, including those who may not meet every listed qualification. Your passion, drive, and perspective are what matter most to us. As an EEO/AA employer, EASTCONN provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, and caste, which is protected by our policies. AA/EOEM/F/D/V