JOB TITLE
Early Learning Aide
PROGRAM/DEPARTMENT
Little Learners Academy
REPORTS TO
Director of Early Childhood Education & Policy
ABOUT HOLY FAMILY MINISTRIES
Holy Family Ministries is a unique community that provides opportunities for children, youth, and families from Chicago's under-resourced neighborhoods to excel academically, grow spiritually, expand life experiences, and become exceptional leaders. For nearly forty years, Holy Family (HFM) has provided hope and purpose, rooted in faith, through the transforming power of education. More than 500 students across four programs are enrolled in year-round programming, each experiencing the chance for a brighter future. At Holy Family, Excellence in Education goes beyond just the classroom, ensuring every child can succeed in school and life. Our programs strengthen communities by educating youth for entrance into high-performing high schools; instill in youth the values, character strengths, and resilience needed to succeed in life; and develop young leaders. The four stellar programs available at
Holy Family Ministries:
1) Little Learners Academy
- Early learning education, 2) Holy Family School
- Education for K-8, 3) Adventures in Learning
- afterschool and summer camp, and 4) The Peace Exchange
- youth leadership and violence prevention program.
Holy Family Ministries has earned a Platinum Seal from Candid (Guidestar), a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, and a well-respected 501(c)(3) organization.
JOB OVERVIEW
The Early Learning Aide (ELA) supports the daily operations of Little Learners Academy classrooms by providing classroom coverage, individualized student support, and assistance with implementing high-quality early childhood practices. The ELA works collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and families to create a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment that promotes children's social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development. This position provides flexible support across classrooms and may assist with small-group instruction, classroom transitions, behavior support, supervision, teacher planning time, and the implementation of individualized strategies for children who require additional support. The ELA plays an essential role in ensuring continuity of instruction and maintaining a positive learning environment for all children.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Support teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with Preschool for All (PFA) requirements and the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards. Assist with individual, small-group, and whole-group instruction under the direction of the classroom teacher. Provide classroom coverage to support teacher planning time, coaching, meetings, and professional development activities. Support children with diverse learning, developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional needs through inclusive practices and individualized assistance. Maintain active supervision of children at all times to ensure a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. Assist with daily classroom routines, including arrival, dismissal, transitions, meals, rest time, toileting, and outdoor play. Support the implementation of Creative Curriculum and classroom activities designed to promote school readiness and child development. Observe and document children's progress and share relevant information with classroom teachers and administrators. Early Learning Aide Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, healthy, and safe classroom environment and learning materials. Build positive relationships with children, families, and staff while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality. Participate in required trainings, staff meetings, and ongoing professional development opportunities. Perform other duties as assigned to support the successful operation of Little Learners Academy.
QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION
High School Diploma or GED.
Required:
Preschool CDA Credential or must achieve the credentials within one year of hire if no degree.
Preferred:
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field or minimum of 15 college credit hours in Early Childhood Education. Experience working with young children in an educational, childcare, or youth development setting. Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suites and G-Suites Strong communication skills (written and verbal) Experience working with a diverse population of students A fierce commitment to equity
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Able to work indoors and occasionally outdoors. Role requires sitting, standing, squatting, kneeling, seeing, hearing, and the ability to lift a minimum of 10lbs.
BENEFITS
(full-time employees only): Health insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance Paid time off Life Insurance Short-term Disability Employee Assistant Program (EAP) 403(b)
