DISCLOSURE: This position requires both a written and an oral exam for consideration. For internal candidates, please apply through the Employee Portal for consideration.

The starting salary with CDA is $27,916 annually

The starting salary without CDA is $24,648 annually

Job Summary

Provides supportive services to classroom teachers in the Prekindergarten Head Start Program. Assists teachers in all aspects of the instructional process designed to advocate the social and academic readiness of preschool students for subsequent entrance into the kindergarten program. Assists teachers in the preparation of and during the conduct of instructional activities, provides supplemental instruction to students individually or in groups. Confers with teachers to meet the social and physical needs of the children.

Essential Functions

• Provides assistance to the classroom teacher as requested; assists in lesson planning and preparation under the direction of the teacher; assists in the preparation of classroom exhibits and bulletin boards; distributes and collects instructional materials; assists with record keeping.
• Works with individuals or small groups to provide extra help to students as needed; attempts to reinforce previous instruction from the teacher; assists or leads children in group activities; assists with recreational activities; accompanies class trips, sharing monitoring responsibilities with teachers.
• Converses with children about their learning activities; encourages active participation by students; provides positive role models for children; participates in and assists children with daily routine activities, which include dining, napping and toileting activities, assists in changing and washing children with soiled clothing.
• Participates in staff development programs.

Minimum Requirements 

Head Start

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Pass the HIghly Qualified Examination.
• Obtain the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential within two years of hire.

(OR)

• Enrolled in an accredited program leading to an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education.

Bright Futures

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Pass the Highly Qualified Examination.
• Obtain the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential within two years of hire is preferred, but not required.     

(OR)

• Enrolled in an accredited program leading to an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in early childhood education preferred, but not required.

Please Note: Employees will remain classified as a Teacher Assistant, Early Childhood without the CDA/AA/BA in ECE until the appropriate credential is obtained. 

Preference for:

• Current or former (within 5 years) Early Childhood parent volunteer.

(OR)

• Former parent volunteer and active in the program as a special needs aide.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Demonstrated knowledge of:

• classroom procedures.
• growth and development of preschool children.

Demonstrated ability to:

• use basic educational materials and instructional aids.
• develop learning experiences and to participate in learning activities.
• assist in the preparation of classroom materials.
• understand the learning process of children.
• relate to and interact with children in a positive manner.
• understand and implement oral and written instructions.
• establish and maintain effective working relationships.