Pre-K Assistant Teacher

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is hiring full-time Pre-K Assistant Teachers for our Head Start program! The Pre-K Assistant Teacher works cooperatively with both classroom teachers to ensure prompt and responsive care to each child, addressing their emotional, social, physical, and educational needs. Head Start Pre-K Assistant Teacher in collaboration with the Head Start Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher provides support in effective instructional strategies, classroom management, learning, assessment, evaluation, and related research for children 3-5 years old. The Head Start Pre-K Assistant Teacher is responsible for providing developmentally appropriate learning experiences, supervising children in the classroom, and maintaining a supportive and positive classroom climate while ensuring the individual needs of the children are met as mandated by Head Start, NAEYC, and federal, state, and local standards. This is a full-time opportunity that starts at $21.04 per hour. Application requirements Official transcripts from accredited institutions verifying educational qualifications relevant to early childhood education. Valid credentials or certifications, such as Early Childhood Education (ECE) certification, Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, or state-specific teaching licenses. Benefits Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership. Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance. 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service. Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs. Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Discounts on programs and company-sponsored events. Scope of responsibilities Demonstrate enthusiasm and interpersonal skills to relate well with children, parents, co-workers, administrators, and the community. Support high-quality teaching and learning in the classroom that promotes academic readiness. Maintain awareness of and supervise the health and safety needs of all children at all times. Aid in guiding and supporting all children, including dual language learners and those with special needs. Support and assist Teachers in implementing English Language Learner programs to inform linguistic and culturally responsive practices. Adapt instructional methods using available resources to support varying needs. Lead selected activities during parts of the day. Model appropriate grammar, language, positive interactions, and discipline for children and parents. Collaborate with classroom adults in planning and implementing activities. Assist with preparations for Parent Meetings, Parent/Teacher Conferences, Parent/Child Activities, and other events. Assist with classroom paperwork and documentation for activities. Complete at least thirty clock hours of professional development annually and maintain a log of requirements. Participate in agency efforts toward recruitment, enrollment, attendance, and retention of eligible families. Adhere to Head Start Performance Standards and Developmentally Appropriate Practices. Observe confidentiality and collaborate with teammates to develop lesson plans and outcomes that integrate health, nutrition, mental health, disabilities, and parent involvement. Gather and display children’s work appropriately; maintain an attractive, safe, and engaging classroom environment. Model family-style eating; regularly sanitize surfaces, toys, equipment, and laundry. Assist with classroom management, organization, and labeling of materials. Maintain accurate education folders and portfolios and support timely assessments and documentation (including TS and online entries). Observe, document, and assess children’s health, skills, behavior, growth, and development; complete required screenings. Minimum and required requirements Bachelor’s degree in Early Education and Gateways Level 4 ECE Credential or an AA Degree with Gateways Level 4 Credential. Must pass DCFS background check and maintain clearance throughout employment. Passion for and commitment to the YMCA’s mission and serving the needs of children and families. Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices to promote early learning and social-emotional development. Child Abuse Prevention: Supports the YMCA’s commitment to child safety by following policies, reporting hazards or suspicious behavior, and completing required training. #J-18808-Ljbffr YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago