Assistant Teacher

TITLE: Assistant Teacher
DIVISION: Early Childhood Outcomes

EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL EMPLOYEES:

At Community Action, we fight poverty. In doing so, every employee is responsible for supporting the agency’s mission, vision and values. This includes actively and regularly demonstrating high quality customer service, accountability in all aspects of your position, and respecting the diversity and differences in our staff, customers, and communities. Expected behaviors and qualities include professionalism and competence, active collaboration, effective communication, initiative and innovation, respect, and goal achievement. Employees are to be able, at any time, to provide basic information about the breadth of customer opportunities available through Community Action and to help customers make connections within the organization. Employees are also expected to adhere to the Community Action Partnership Code of Ethics and Head Start Code of Conduct.

Community Action is more than an equal opportunity employer. Our agency recognizes and understands that historical and systemic racism, classism, and other forms of unwarranted bias and discrimination have resulted in disparities that cannot be healed through equality efforts alone. Community Action is committed to a company culture that celebrates and promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion among all people.

POSITION SUMMARY BROAD FUNCTION:

The Early Head Start (EHS)/Head Start (HS) Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in creating a nurturing and engaging classroom environment for young children. The Assistant Teacher plays a vital role in promoting children's growth and development through meaningful interactions, hands-on learning activities, and family engagement. This position involves assisting with curriculum implementation, classroom management, and ensuring each child’s safety, well-being, and educational success

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Classroom Support and Instruction:

• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing a research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that aligns with Head Start Performance Standards.
• Support children’s social-emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development through positive interactions and engaging activities.
• Reinforce learning concepts introduced by the Lead Teacher through small group activities and one-on-one support.
• Help maintain a warm, inviting classroom environment that encourages exploration and learning.
• Ensure daily schedules, routines, and transitions are consistent and supportive of children’s needs.

Child Supervision and Safety:

• Supervise children at all times to ensure a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment.
• Follow established health, safety, and sanitation procedures in the classroom.
• Assist with mealtime routines, diapering/toileting, and hygiene practices as appropriate for the child’s developmental stage.
• Conduct regular safety checks and respond promptly to any concerns.

Assessment and Documentation:

• Assist in conducting child assessments and observations to track developmental progress.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, meal counts, and daily reports as required.
• Provide input to the Lead Teacher for lesson planning and individual child goals.

Family Engagement:

• Build positive, respectful relationships with families to support their child’s learning and well-being.
• Assist with family conferences, home visits, and program events as directed.
• Share observations and updates with families to encourage involvement in their child’s education.

Collaboration and Professional Growth:

• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, classroom team, and support staff to provide consistent care and education.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, training, and coaching opportunities.
• Attend staff meetings, in-service training, and required certifications.
• Support the Lead Teacher in creating a positive, inclusive classroom culture that reflects the diverse backgrounds of enrolled children and families.

Other Duties as Assigned

AUTHORITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY:

The Assistant Teacher is delegated full authority necessary for the effective performance of all assigned duties and responsibilities subject to the restrictions, requirements, and terms of the agency’s policies and procedures, applicable local/state/federal laws, and the dictates of sound business judgment, prudence, and ethical conduct. The Assistant Teacher is fully accountable to the Lead Teacher for their performance, which will be measured against the position description and established performance goals.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily carry out each essential duty. The knowledge, skill, achievements, and/or abilities required or preferred, are listed below. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or in Infant-Toddler or Preschool or willingness to obtain within 12 months of hire or Early Childhood Education Certification.
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschool-aged children in an early childhood education setting.
• Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards and best practices in early childhood education preferred.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to adapt to individual child needs and provide inclusive care for children with disabilities or developmental delays.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with the Lead Teacher and other staff.
• Patience and Compassion: Skilled in supporting children's emotional and social development.
• Flexibility: Adaptable to changing classroom needs and routines.
• Communication: Ability to engage effectively with children, families, and staff.
• Initiative: Willingness to take direction while also contributing ideas and solutions to enhance classroom experiences

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.36 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18