Early Childhood Education: Preschool Assistant Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Early Learning Center Director, the assistant teacher staff member will assist the lead teachers with classroom activities under the project-based learning curriculum. Assistant Teachers will follow the daily routine, lead activities, engage with children positively and enrichingly, and supervise children. Occasionally, assistants will be assigned to cover the front desk, answer phone calls, and assist parents with their questions and needs. This position is also responsible for helping with recordkeeping, classroom supplies inventory, and any safety issues. Provides a quality experience to children and parents in accordance with the association's policies and procedures that focus on the YMCA values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.

RESPONSIBILTIES

• Maintain all children's classroom records in an up-to-date accurate and appropriate manner.
• Conduct classroom programs in compliance with department policies and procedures following all state and federal laws and regulations.
• Keep the lead teacher and director informed of incidents, problems and occurrences with staff, children, parents, and program.
• Complete assignments in a timely, organized, neat and accurate manner.
• Attend and participate in regular in-service trainings for staff.
• Assist with the front desk when needed, answering phones, greeting parents and addressing center needs.
• Advise Child Development Director of necessary equipment repair and general maintenance needs
• Follow daily opening and / or closing procedures.
• Maintain work area in an organized and appropriate manner.
• Insure that classroom and program activity areas are kept in an organized and tidy manner.
• Follow the project-based learning model by conducting a goal-oriented and themed curriculum.
• Ensure a safe and healthy environment for all program participants.
• Employ consistent methods of child behavior management and work with all staff to maintain consistent and fair discipline techniques.
• Give attention to and solve day-to-day "crisis" that occur in the program.
• Address parent and program participant concerns in a timely and professional manner.
• Supervise and assist children with meal and snack time.
• Supervise and assist children with toileting and personal care needs.
• Supervise nap/quiet time for children.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A minimum of 6 ECE units from an accredited college.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Current CPR, First Aid, AED certifications.
• Safety, Sexual Harassment, Child Abuse prevention, Mandate Reporter, and other assigned in-person/online training within 30 days of hire date.
• Up-to-date TB test every 2 years. If you have a chest x-ray on file a TB test is no longer required.
• Must have a current Live scan active on file OR obtain clearance prior to first day of hire (live scan is at the expense of the employee)
• Previous experience working (paid or volunteer) with children in a developmental setting preferred.
• Ability to execute and lead age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• This position is not considered light duty. Employees must be able to lift 60 pounds; be able to stand, walk, sit, bend, squat, kneel, and be in good physical health.
• Employee must be able to be on their feet for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to safely withstand exposure to the elements, which include sun, wind, and any weather while on duty.
• Must be able to plan, lead, and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor and indoor settings.
• Ability to see at a normal distance and hear everyday conversations and sounds.
• Use hands and fingers to fill out required forms on a regular basis.