PALADIN INC·Michigan City, Indiana
The primary duties involve supporting teachers by ensuring the successful delivery and compliant serving of Head Start food components, including transportation and storage, while assisting with family-style meals. Staff must also implement active supervision and conscious discipline practices for the children throughout their assigned duties.
High School Diploma or Equivalent Knowledge of working in a preschool setting preferred, but not required Good verbal and written communications skills Must have or be willing to obtain Adult and Pediatric CPR and First Aid Certifications within 30 days from the date of hire. Must have or be willing to obtain CACFP required training(s). Valid Driver’s License and access to a privately-owned vehicle with liability insurance for use in completing work responsibilities as required. Good verbal and written communications skills. Bilingual in English and Spanish desirable but not required. The primary language in the workplace is English.
Classroom Management, Intentional Planning, and Meaningful Assessment Appropriately implements CACFP procedures and comply with all USDA laws. Complete cleaning tasks assigned by Supervisor Assist with classroom set up / tear down as assigned by Supervisor. Family Engagement and Partnerships Build respectful, culturally responsive, and trusting relationships with families. Professionalism Engage in effective collegial relationships Interact with other staff using the highest standards of professionalism. Supports team by providing coverage for breaks, lunches, and illnesses as needed Follow all agency policies and procedures Responsive to mentor/coaching/management feedback. Demonstrate a willingness to implement new strategies. Provide customer service in reception, greet, and direct visitors at the site. Perform other relevant responsibilities as required by the program or assigned by supervisor. Help with maintaining a clean, sanitary, safe and welcoming classroom. Model the respectful workplace policy when interacting with Paladin clients, community members, and colleagues. Must be responsible, able to handle confidential material, able to organize effectively and able to work independently. Assure that a positive image of the Paladin is always portrayed. Training responsibilities Maintain current, valid driver’s license and liability insurance at all times on any personal vehicle used to conduct Paladin business. Obtain and keep current Adult and Pediatric CPR and First Aid certifications. Attend all Head Start training as directed by supervisor, including but not limited to annual pre-service training, professional development days, and special interest training as available. Complete 15 credit hours in ECE and a minimum of 20 hours continuing education, based on individualized professional development plan.
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma or Equivalent and be willing to obtain Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid Certifications and CACFP required training within specified timeframes. Essential physical abilities include kneeling, stooping, bending, sitting on the floor, and occasional lifting over 50 lbs, alongside the ability to respond quickly to emergencies and maintain professional conduct.
Market context
In Indiana, teaching assistant roles are often driven by school staffing needs and the need for dependable support in classrooms, after-school settings, and other child-focused environments. These positions can be competitive because employers look for energetic candidates who can meet state or accreditation requirements, work indoors or outdoors, and stay active with children. On this platform, the job requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time; before applying, confirm the exact education, experience, and activity expectations in the posting.