JOB SUMMARY:

The Associate Teacher is responsible for working as a team with the Lead Teacher in the operation and management of the classroom. The Associate Teacher is responsible for adhering to Head Start Performance Standards, CAPE’s policies and procedures, NAEYC, State Licensing Standards and CAPE’s Mission Statement. Must be professional and be able to work cooperatively and respectfully with children, families, staff and community members.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

• Assist the lead teacher in implementing daily lesson plans and educational activities that promote the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of children.
• Engage with children in various learning experiences, including arts and crafts, music and movement, storytelling, and sensory play.
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment where children feel supported, respected, and encouraged to explore and learn.
• Provide attentive care and supervision to children, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
• Assist with diapering, feeding, and other basic care routines as needed, following established procedures and guidelines.
• Monitor children during indoor and outdoor activities, maintaining a safe and secure environment and addressing any safety concerns promptly.
• Communicate effectively with the lead teacher, parents, and other staff members to share information about children's progress, behavior, and needs.
• Collaborate with the lead teacher and other team members to plan and coordinate classroom activities, events, and routines.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in early childhood education.
• Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and inviting classroom environment, including sanitizing toys and equipment, organizing materials, and arranging furniture.
• Support the lead teacher in implementing positive behavior management strategies and addressing challenging behaviors with patience, empathy, and consistency.
• Encourage and model appropriate social interactions, cooperation, and conflict resolution skills among children.
• Adhere to licensing regulations, health and safety guidelines, and other regulatory requirements governing daycare centers.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, incidents, and other relevant information as required by licensing authorities and center policies.
• Report any concerns or issues related to child safety, well-being, or regulatory compliance to the lead teacher or center management promptly.
• All other duties as assigned.

• Minimum 18 hours in ECE and actively pursuing Associate Degree.
• Must possess or obtain current (within one year of expiration) CPR, First Aid and Universal Precautions certifications.
• Good communication skills
• Personal/reliable transportation.
• Bilingual/Spanish a plus.
• Must have ability to read, speak, and write with proficiency in the English language.
• Must be able to supervise staff and volunteers.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals of diverse educational, socio-economic, cultural backgrounds, and with disabilities or special needs.
• Must have sufficient strength and flexibility (ability to stoop, bend, lift, squat, kneel, twist, etc.) to frequently be at a child’s level, sit on the floor with children, respond to a child’s quick and frequent movements.
• Must have ability to work in an environment with high noise level and considerable activity. Possess the physical stamina to be outside daily as required (weather permitting, no local heat or health advisories for young children and temperatures above 25 degrees, wind chill factor) and the ability to walk and run-on uneven surfaces.

Benefits - $350 sign on bonus after 90 days

401K Retirement Plan/3% match – Medical Insurance – Dental Insurance – Vision Insurance – $20,000 Life Insurance

Personal Time – 11 Paid Holidays, Spring Break, Fall Break and Winter Break

Provided Trainings and Workshops

Pass criminal checks, drug and alcohol screen

Community Action Program of Evansville (CAPE) operates under a nondiscriminatory policy with regard to race, color, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, creed or religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and all federally protected groups/classes. Minorities and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

CAPE participates in the E-Verify program.