Mason Head Start Teacher Assistant

Hill Country Community Action Association, Inc. Head Start

Job Description

JOB TITLE: Teacher Assistant (10.5 months) FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt REPORTS TO: Teacher/Director or Site Director ASSIGNMENT DATE: _____________ DESIGNATED HEADQUARTERS: _____________ ___________________________________________________________________________________

Position Summary

The Head Start Teacher Assistant is responsible for a group of children or area of activity as assigned, supervising play activities by participating in group games, enforcing safety rules, and intervening when children are likely to injure themselves or others. The Head Start Teacher Assistant will also act as Teacher in the absence of Director/Teacher by learning all aspects of the function of a Head Start Classroom, such as completing all assigned paperwork and reports, supervision of children, and sharing in the implementation of lesson plans. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Responsible for developing, writing, and conducting a planned lesson at least once a month; more frequently as experience is gained. Prepare and conduct at least one center activity a day, such as circle time, science, home or other. Will be responsible for additional center activities under the guidance of Center Director and or Classroom Teacher as needed. Work closely with the Center Director and Classroom Teacher to maintain a calm classroom conducive to good early childhood learning standards without resorting to physical punishment. Ensure that childcare routines are carried out in a manner that is prompt, hygienic, and consistent with good child development principles. This includes routines related to hand washing, tooth brushing, eating, napping, and transitions between activities accomplished through working and communicating with Center Director/Teacher. Assist the children at snack, breakfast, and lunch time; assure that the Head Start philosophy of serving family style meals is maintained and that the children serve themselves. The Teacher Assistant and Teacher will both be seated at the table(s) with the children at mealtime. Ensure the safety of children through constant supervision, effective arrangement of space, proper maintenance of equipment, and regular practice of fire drills and other emergency procedures. Work as a member of a team to ensure continuity of curriculum and high standards of equality in the classroom; work individually with children who have trouble during group activities. Responsible for documentation in ½ of the children's files in all content areas. Complete Individual Development Plans for each enrolled child; continue the on-going assessment process, maintaining written or computer records on each child. Observe, record, and report any child's behavior, sharing information appropriately with other staff members. Attend all staff meetings and other training as provided. After the new hire probationary period (90 days) Teacher Assistants must work toward and receive a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Perform any other duties as assigned by the Center Director. JOB REQUIREMENTS: ANNUAL PRE-SERVICE TRAINING IS MANDATORY EDUCATION: Minimum: High School Diploma or GED. EXPERIENCE: Some experience and ability to work with pre-school children. SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Must have a warm, supportive, pleasant, and positive attitude toward young children and parents. Must be reliable. Must be flexible in receiving assignments or adapting to changes in the program. Must be willing to accept supervision to improve work performance. OTHER: Professional manner and attire. No record of a conviction which would contraindicate employment. Must have a valid Class C driver's license and a reliable vehicle with current liability insurance; insurable under HCCAA's vehicle insurance policy. A Head Start physical screening within 30 days of hire. Must maintain CPR and First Aide certifications. Must comply with all HCCAA Policies and maintain confidentiality and courtesy in all phases of agency operations. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: No EQUIPMENT TO BE USED: Must be able to operate a computer and other office machines such as fax, calculator, copier, and telephone. TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Requires interacting with the children on their level at times (on the floor), and sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and driving. Must be able to lift to 40 pounds. Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate standard office machines such as computers, fax machines, calculators, telephones, and other office equipment. Requires a normal range of hearing and vision. Must be able to react quickly (run after a child). TYPICAL MENTAL DEMANDS: Must be able to analyze the effectiveness of classroom operations and choose the most effective course of action for the Head Start program at any given point in time. Must handle new and diverse work problems daily. Personal maturity is an important attribute. Must be able to resolve problems, handle conflict, and make effective decisions under pressure. Must have the ability to listen objectively to people, perceive the real problem and assist in bringing issues to a successful conclusion. Must relate and interact with employees at all levels within the agency. Bilingual skills are encouraged. Knowledge of basic math and literacy skills. Ability to record data pertinent to Head Start Performance Standards. WORKING CONDITIONS: During the Head Start school year the classroom staff is scheduled to work an alternate work schedule to coincide with the center's hours of operation. (As assigned for those working less than full time). The center hours of operation are typically 7:30 am-4:00 pm, Monday-Friday. The Center Director will plan the work schedule for each employee. To meet program goals, classroom staff will occasionally be required to perform duties outside their alternate work schedule. Some out-of-town and overnight travel are required. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: Accrual of sick and vacation leave, health insurance, life insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, and up to 15 paid holidays per year. Options for employee paid benefits.