Head Start Teacher Assistant

Position: Head Start Teacher Assistant

Reports to: Director of Early Childhood Education

Compensation: $40,0000 to $43,000 Annually

Status: Full time

Location: Chicago, IL

Description

For over a century, Northwestern Settlement has been a cornerstone in the West Town community, supporting families through education, social services, and the arts. Our Early Childhood Program is a vital part of that mission, fostering a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children during their most critical years of development. We are currently seeking a dedicated and passionate Head Start Teacher Assistant to join our team. This individual will support the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that support the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of children. Teacher Assistant works collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to provide classroom support and assist with the development and implementation of core curriculum that follows the Head Start Program Performance Standards, NAEYC Standards, and that of our Community Partnership CPS. This opportunity is ideal for someone who has a passion for helping young children grow and thrive.

Key Duties/Responsibilities

• Assist with creating a inclusive and supportive classroom environment

• Support implementation of lesson plans aligned with Head Start Performance Standards

• Help monitor and document children’s progress through observations and assessments

• Participate in parent-teacher conferences to support individualized child development plans

• Foster open communication with families, promoting parent involvement

• Maintain a safe and clean learning environment in compliance with DCFS and Head Start regulations

• Participate in ongoing professional development, team meetings, and trainings

• In addition to the duties expressly provided above, the Teacher Assistant from time to time will perform other duties and functions as assigned by their direct supervisor.

Ideal Skills/Traits

• Excellent oral and written communication, collaboration, and organizational skills

• Ability to relate to our multicultural community

• Ability to accept guidance and supervision

• Excellent punctuality and attendance

• Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred

Education/Experience

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Development or Child Development

• Illinois Gateways ECE/ IT Credential Level 4

• American Red Cross First Aid/CPR Certification

Compensation & Benefits:

Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. We offer a robust health benefits package. In addition, all staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including a dedicated workspace, laptop, email, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.

Statement of Non-Discrimination:

Northwestern Settlement is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.