Y Readers Instructional Assistant: Metro YMCA

Under the supervision of the Program Director and Site Director and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the Y Readers Teacher Assistant will be responsible for the supervision of program participants, as well the planning and implementation of literacy and enrichment activities, providing each participant with the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, spiritually and socially.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and execute literacy-based lessons
• Provide individual, small group and/or whole group differentiated instruction to students
• Plan and lead daily enrichment activities, including but not limited to physical activity, art, character education, field trips, and swim lessons.
• Supervise and engage with assigned students at all times.
• Assist with parent communication, including phone calls, written communication and parent meetings
• Implement positive behavior management practices
• Build and maintain positive relationships with students, staff, and parents
• Assist with arrival and dismissal procedures to ensure student safety
• Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment
• Assist with other duties as assigned

YMCA COMPETENCIES:

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

EDUCATION & SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

• Meet definition of highly qualified paraprofessional as defined by Title I legislation required
• Minimum 1 year experience working with youth ages 4-10 or with teacher assistant experience preferred
• Principal recommendation required
• Willingness to lead and supervise recreational and instructional activities
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances
• Ability to problem solve
• Training and certifications required by the Quality Standards within allotted timeframe

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time.
• Exposure to communicable diseases and bodily fluids. 
• Must be able to lift and/or assist children up to 65 pounds in weight.
• Must be able to lift and carry supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time. 
• Requires bending, pulling, crouching, leaning, kneeling, and walking, pushing, climbing, and jumping 
• Must be able to communicate verbally and in writing in such a way as to be easily understood by children, staff and parents.  
• Visual and auditory ability to supervise and respond to critical situations with children.  
• Must be able to move freely and quickly through the facility and alternate program locations including outdoors and field trips.