Teacher Assistant

Position summary:

Responsible for assisting the Head/Lead teacher in the care and learning of children within the classroom. 

Reports To:

Education Coordinator

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development and implementation of a well-rounded curriculum that is developmentally and age appropriate for the children in the classroom.  Assure that curriculum meets the need of each individual child and is in alignment with the guidelines of the DCYF licensing regulations, Bright Stars Quality Rating Standards, The Rhode Island’s Comprehensive Birth to Five Early Learning and Developmental Standards and the YMCA.
• Conference with teacher to assist in the preparation of lesson plans in accordance with the Creative Curriculum framework for both indoor and outdoor activities
• Understand and conduct on going assessments of children’s progress.  Present documentation of findings to the teacher.  Routinely conference with teacher and to assure findings are being documented correctly.
• Implement the Y Healthy Eating Physical Activity Standards into classroom routine using positive role modeling and the Food and Fun Curriculum.
• Create and update learning centers within classroom in accordance with the ITERS and ECERS Environmental Rating Scale.
• Collaborate with teacher to prepare and deliver a written daily (infants/toddlers) or weekly (preschool) means of communication with families.
• Responsible for ensuring proper sign in and sign out procedures are followed in accordance with DCYF Licensing Regulations.
• Responsible for conducting daily health checks and assuring proper documentation. 
• Prepare and maintain all attendance and meal reports.
• Responsible for knowing and following all health, safety and emergency procedures.
• Maintain positive relationship with families.  Understand that you represent the Y and maintain a professional demeanor. 
• Use Listen First communication skills with fellow staff and families.
• Report for work shift on time and ready to begin routine with children.
• Responsible for attending all staff meetings and trainings.
• To ensure the health and safety of all the children, i.e. caution regarding unsafe practices and conditions and perform rescue/first aid when necessary.  Report accidents and injuries and complete incident documentation.
• Participate in recommended training programs, conferences, courses and other aspect of professional growth.  
• Communicate professionally, clearly and consistently modeling values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
• Consistently communicate with families focusing on building supportive relationships through active listening and constantly seeking ways to engage and support all children and their families.
• Create a welcome, supportive atmosphere by greeting families by name in a friendly manner, making eye contact and engaging in conversation about their interests. 
• Understand, enforce and adhere to YMCA policies and procedures in a consistent manner resulting in efficient, professional operations.
• Role model communication skills and good judgment when describing and enforcing policies.
• Maintain an organized, clean and safe work place.
• Work in harmony and cooperation with staff, volunteers and members to develop team spirit and a family atmosphere.
• Attend all trainings and meetings and be able to demonstrate knowledge of all skills.  Maintain all required certifications.  Continually enhance professional development through workshops, educational courses, trainings and/or appropriate reading material as directed.
• Arrive on time and prepared for your scheduled shift. 
• Assist with insuring a risk free environment, i.e. caution people regarding unsafe practices and conditions.  Report accidents and injuries and complete incident reports.