Action for Boston Community Development·Dorchester, Massachusetts
The Teacher Assistant supports the Teacher in the care and education of children by implementing the Education Component objectives of the Performance Standards and promoting the mission of ABCD Head Start & Children’s Services. Key duties include providing a nurturing environment, participating in daily observations, assisting with lesson plans and IEP development, and engaging in necessary record keeping.
Description The Teacher Assistant is responsible for assisting the Teacher with the care and education of a group of children as part of a teaching team. The Teacher Assistant assists with the planning and implementation of the Education Component objectives of the Performance Standards.
The Teacher Assistant is responsible for promoting the mission of ABCD Head Start & Children’s Services; building an understanding of the program by communicating this mission to staff, families and the community.
This position must comply with all federal, state and local laws, regulations, standards and policies, including those of the federal Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Massachusetts disability law (Chapter 766), Boston Family Engagement Network (BFEN) and ABCD, Inc. Head Start and Children’s Services policies and procedures.
All ABCD Head Start/Early Head Start and Children’s Services personnel who are paid to care for, or work with, children are MANDATED BY LAW to report all suspected cases of child abuse and neglect to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF), pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 119 §§ 51A – 51G. Any staff member who suspects child abuse or neglect of a child must inform his or her supervisor immediately.
The responsibilities of a particular position may support both Early Head Start and Head Start depending on the individual assignment. The specific corresponding funding allocation will be documented on the personnel payroll authorization or change of status form.
All communications are potentially sensitive and are subject to Head Start's policy on confidentiality.
Teaching Practices Provides pre-school children with a joyful, nurturing, safe, healthy individualized environment and the varied experiences which help them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development in relationship to the overall goal of social competency. Observation, Planning and Documentation Participate in the daily observations of children. Participate in a minimum of two home visits and three parent/teacher conferences per family per year. Participate in the development of and implementation of developmentally-appropriate lesson plans and individualized activities. Participate in the development and implementation of written Individual Education Plans (IEP's) for children with special needs. Engage in record keeping activities (e.g. keeping records of daily observations of children and of communication with parents). Participate in Team meetings. Additional Duties & Tasks Attends meetings as necessary. Maintain the EEC requirements including child to staff ratios, classroom supervision, etc. Participates in the day to day operation of the classroom/center. Provide classroom coverage in the absence of the Teacher or Lead Teacher. Report to the Teacher or Lead Teacher regarding the daily implementation of classroom duties. Report to the Program Director for all matters relating to terms of employment and center operations.
High school diploma or equivalent required. Active Preschool Child Development Associate Credential; ECE Certificate or EEC Preschool Lead Teacher certified, or enrolled in a degree program leading to an Associates or Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field, or enrolled in a CDA program to be completed within two years with experience teaching preschool age children. EEC preschool teacher certified preferred. Bilingual in a language spoken by families served by ABCD preferred.
$43,625.40 annually ($23.97/hour) USD. Salary scales are set according to an explicit compensation policy and relevant market data. Due to funding restrictions and our strong focus on internal parity, this salary is thoughtfully aligned with the duties expected for this role, and offers are firm.
Every day, your work directly impacts the lives of thousands in the Greater Boston community, empowering them and making positive, lasting change.
Inclusive
Environment: ABCD values the diversity of its workforce, with an inclusive culture that respects individuality and promotes collaboration.
Continuous
Learning: We offer numerous training and development opportunities, ensuring our staff remain at the forefront of community action methodologies and strategies.
Comprehensive
Benefits: At ABCD, we take care of our own, providing a competitive benefits package, including health coverage and retirement plans.
A
Legacy of
Impact: Join an organization that boasts a legacy spanning over half a century, consistently championing the rights and needs of our community's most vulnerable.
Teamwork &
Camaraderie: Be a part of a passionate team, united in their mission to combat poverty, and ensure every individual can reach their fullest potential.
A High School Diploma or equivalent is required, along with an active Preschool Child Development Associate Credential, ECE Certificate, or EEC Preschool Lead Teacher certification, or enrollment in a relevant degree/CDA program. Candidates should possess good interpersonal skills, sensitivity to the needs of low-income families, and the physical capability to manage preschool-aged children and classroom activities.
Market context
Classroom teacher openings in Massachusetts are often driven by school staffing needs, student support priorities, and subject-area coverage. These roles are competitive because employers look for strong communication, classroom management, and the ability to meet state and district expectations; in this listing, the requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, which can save candidates research time. Before applying, review the certification, schedule, and any required documentation to confirm you meet the posted qualifications.
