Teaching Assistant

Job Purpose:

Assist teacher in executing learning activities of children according to the general guidelines of developmentally appropriate practice.

Qualifications:

Must be able to lift 50 pounds Must be capable of bending, crouching or kneeling to children's level Must be able to reach at and above shoulder height Must be capable of frequent changes of positions throughout the work shift Must have a high school diploma or general education degree Must have appropriate patience and demeanor to work with multiple children in one setting

Functional/Technical Requirements:

Be familiar with centerwide policies and procedures Assist in teacher lead activities. Teachers are responsible for creating and implementing activities. Assistants are responsible for assisting in these activities as directed by teacher Work cooperatively with teacher to develop developmentally appropriate activities for assigned children Participate in staff development activities and staff meetings as required by the Director Assist children with feeding, toileting and personal care as directed by teacher Assist with meal and snack preparation and clean up after meals as directed by teacher Assist with required paperwork as directed by teacher and procare Supervise children's activities, including participating in group activities, enforcing safety practices, and intervening in a positive manner when children are likely to injure themselves or others Assist children individually who are experiencing difficulty with the provided activity Prepare supplies and the classroom to encourage positive educational experiences as directed by teacher Maintain an orderly and sanitized environment for children as directed by teacher Identify and remove potential hazards in the classroom and playground environment Encourage children to participate in teacher created activities and foster independence in activities children are completing Complete additional responsibilities as directed by teacher, Director, and/or Assistant Director Communicate with your Lead/Co-Lead. Learn basic procare Help with portfolios as needed Attend parent meetings Facilitate parental of a developmental approach to early childhood education and offer advice on dealing with specific issues when asked Track progress for each child through directed means

Administrative:

Maintain professional qualifications/certificates Maintain accurate records of children in your care (meals, attendance, etc.) Fill out incident reports and accident reports on children immediately so parents are aware of the incident. Inform the Director of incidents as well. Submit lesson plans to the Director in a timely manner. Notify the Director in a time manner regarding need for supplies and other classroom provisions.

Classroom and Playground Environments:

Review and model rules for all children in the classroom environment, gym and playground. Orient and supervise aides, assistants and volunteers regarding the classroom and playground materials, equipment and rules. Create and maintain environments that provide choices and variety that are appropriate to children's developmental potential. Create displays of children's art and work that is relevant to activities being done in the classroom. Keep the classroom decorations appropriate to the season and follow a non-biased curriculum approach. Provide for care and proper use of furniture, equipment and materials Keep the classroom clean and orderly, working with children as they learn appropriate behaviors. Ensure all bulletin boards are up to date and frequently changed Conserve materials when possible Report and remove potential hazards Ensure that all materials are put away before leaving for the day Create and maintain a nurturing and positive environment to promote children's self-esteem Treat children with the same respect you expect to receive. •This list is not all inclusive and may be modified by the Director at any time.•

Compensation:

$12-$14/hour, based on experience