East Bay Community Action Program·East Providence, Rhode Island
The Teacher Assistant provides hands-on classroom support to deliver high-quality early childhood education and ensures a safe, nurturing environment for infants and toddlers. They collaborate with teaching staff to implement learning activities, document child progress, and foster positive relationships with families.
Description Are you passionate about supporting young children during their most important developmental years? Join our Early Head Start team and play a meaningful role in creating nurturing, engaging, and safe learning environments where infants and toddlers can thrive. If you enjoy working alongside dedicated educators, partnering with families, and making a lasting impact in your community, we'd love to hear from you.
As an Early Head Start Teacher Assistant, you will provide hands-on classroom support and work closely with the Teacher Lead to deliver high-quality early childhood education experiences. You'll help create a welcoming environment where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to learn through exploration and positive interactions. This role is based across Head Start locations throughout the EBCAP service area, including Tiverton, Newport, Middletown, East Providence, and Warren, as needed. You will help ensure programs align with Head Start standards, developmentally appropriate practices, and evidence-based early learning frameworks.
As a float team member, you'll have the opportunity to support children and classrooms across our East Bay locations. Flexibility and reliable transportation to travel throughout the service area are required.
Key Responsibilities Create and maintain a safe, healthy, and engaging classroom environment.
Supervise children throughout the day and promote positive learning experiences.
Support social-emotional growth through positive guidance strategies.
Assist in planning and implementing age-appropriate learning activities.
Help document children's activities, progress, and classroom experiences.
Foster positive relationships between children, families, and staff.
Encourage family participation and open communication.
Assist with home visits and family conferences throughout the year.
Participate in community recruitment events that support program growth and outreach.
Assist with daily classroom organization, cleanliness, and supply management.
Support classroom routines and schedules to ensure smooth operations.
Collaborate with teaching staff and education leadership to maintain high program standards.
Report safety concerns and policy issues promptly.
Partner with behavioral health professionals and teaching teams when specialized support plans are needed.
Participate in ongoing professional development and maintain required credentials.
Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to support children and families.
Demonstrate commitment to diversity, ethics, and inclusion.
Make referrals and promote agency services when appropriate.
Contribute to a culture of continuous learning and excellence.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills. A collaborative, team-oriented mindset. The ability to build trust with children, families, and colleagues. Positive behavior support and child guidance skills. Organizational skills and attention to detail. Professional judgment, integrity, and confidentiality. A passion for early childhood development and family-centered services. High school diploma or GED. Experience working in an early childhood education setting. Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, particularly in Infant/Toddler education. Degree coursework in Early Childhood Education. Experience with The Creative Curriculum. Familiarity with classroom assessment tools. Knowledge of Conscious Discipline practices.
For eligible full-time employees, EBCAP offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Medical and dental insurance Vision coverage options Flexible spending accounts 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching Employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability Generous paid time off Mileage reimbursement Tuition reimbursement Agency-funded training and professional development opportunities Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and additional wellness resources If you're ready to support young learners, strengthen family connections, and make a meaningful difference every day, we encourage you to apply for our Early Head Start Teacher Assistant opportunity. Together, we can help children build strong foundations for lifelong success.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and experience in an early childhood education setting. A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Infant/Toddler education is preferred, along with reliable transportation for travel between service locations.
Market context
Rhode Island classroom teacher roles often reflect steady demand tied to school staffing needs and student support priorities. Competition can be shaped by experience expectations and preferred credentials; in this case, at least 3 years of experience and Microsoft Office proficiency are required, while RMA or CMA (AAMA) certifications are preferred. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform against the original posting, and confirm how your experience aligns before applying.
