Teaching Assistant

Primary Purpose:

Assist the teacher in the preparation and management of classroom activities and administrative requirements as it applies to children enrolled in the Head Start center. Ensure compliance with all HCDE policies, division procedures, Head Start Program Performance Standards, Child Care Licensing Minimum Standards and other local, state and federal regulations.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• High School diploma or GED equivalence
• Pre-School Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field;
• Enrolled in Pre-School Child Development Associate (CDA) credential program to be completed no later than 12 months and CDA credential achieved no later than 24 months of hire date; or
• Enrolled in a program leading to an Associate or Bachelor’s degree

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to work well with adults
• Ability to communicate effectively
• General knowledge of computer systems and software applications
• Basic written and verbal communication skills
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking skills a plus

Experience:

• Six months to one year experience working with young children in a Head Start program or other early childhood education program or documentation of 24 hours of early care and education training obtained within the past twelve months

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Model HCDE and Head Start’s mission, vision and values.
• Screen assigned students within the first 45 days of enrollment.
• Support the teacher in creating an instructional environment that is engaging, positive and interactive.
• Participate in the creation of lesson plans and support implementation.
• Assist with ongoing assessments to support individual instruction and monitor progress of students, consistently sharing information with teaching team.
• Maintain adequate supervision to ensure students’ health, welfare, and safety.
• Support the teacher during semi-annual home visits and parent-teacher conferences.
• Work collaboratively with parents, colleagues and community partners to support HCDE Head Start’s school readiness goals for children, families and the community.
• Ensure all required assignments and documentation is complete and accurate as required.
• Maintain confidentiality of information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.