Head Start Instructional Assistant

Primary Purpose:

To comply with all federal guidelines (Head Start Performance Standards, Transmittal Notices, etc.) and local Head Start/Early Head Start policies in providing children and families with Head Start/Early Head Start services. To assist teachers in providing children with a learning environment and varied experiences which will help them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development and toward the overall goal of social competence.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification

High School diploma or GED required

Child Development Associate (CDA) or willingness to obtain within one year required

Current first aid/ CPR certification or willingness to obtain required

Clear background history checks at the local, state, and federal levels required (Background checks are conducted by the ESC at no cost to the applicant.)

Skills

Experience working with young children preferred

Loving, nurturing disposition toward young children required

Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred

Valid Texas driver's license or other reliable mode of transportation during work hours required

Proof of current automobile liability insurance required

Ability to follow instructions and uphold the high standards of the Head Start quality of care according to the Head Start Performance Standards

Moderate technology skills required

Willing to uphold the Head Start Standards of Conduct required

Must be service driven with the ability to assume personal responsibility and maintain a positive outlook

Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, possess the ability to work as a team player, enjoy a variety of activities, and possess organizational abilities

Working Conditions:

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom and nursery equipment such as toys, playgrounds, multiple-rider strollers, etc.; personal computer and printer

Posture: Must be physically able to tolerate frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Must be physically able to participate in moderate to high levels of physical activity, such as, but not limited to, standing for moderate to lengthy periods of time, frequent squatting and sitting on the floor, frequent walking, and overhead reaching, occasional driving

Lifting: Must be physically able to tolerate regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds or more)

Environment: Must be physically able to tolerate cleaning products and sanitizers, work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; frequent exposure to bodily fluids; tolerate occasional travel between work sites

Mental Demands: Must be able to work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress and self-control in the presence of children

Regular Attendance is an essential function

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Daily Standards:

Cooperates with and assists teacher with classroom operations

Interacts with children during all indoor and outdoor activities

Must provide program with a current health physical

Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities

Assists with diapering and toilet training using Early Head Start/Head Start approved procedures

Actively supervises and interacts with children during all activities

Uses calm, non-threatening voice

Demonstrates respect for each child and accepts differences in children

Corrects through conversation and models expected behavior

Follows safety and environment regulations

Models correct speech patterns and vocabulary for children

Maintains a safe playground environment

Substitutes in classes as needed

Follows teacher's instructions for lesson plans

Provides emergency medical care as needed

Eats one meal daily with children (sharing the same menu) and assists children with clean up

Monitors the appropriate approved persons for child pick up

Cleans and sanitizes materials throughout the day and completes required documentation

Complies with center policies

Supports program policies and changes

Completes and submits all forms by due dates

Attends home visits as needed

Obtains and maintains first aid/CPR certifications

Performs duties that directly and/or indirectly impact student performance

Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the ESC safety program

Performs professional responsibilities as required by ESC policies, processes, and procedures

Incorporates appropriate technology in daily work and exhibits continual growth in technologies as outlined by supervisor

Performs other duties as assigned

Professional Standards:

Engages in respectful goal-oriented partnerships with families to promote student success and family well-being

Maintains confidentiality of child and family information

Interacts in a positive manner with parents and treats them with respect

Acts as primary caregiver in the teacher’s absence

Attends all required PLCs/staff development and meetings

Attends parent meetings as required

Completes appropriate Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential within the timeline designated by Head Start/Early Head Start CDA advisor; maintains current Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential once obtained

Complies with ESC personnel policies regarding absences and tardiness

Collects and analyzes information for improvement

Maintains a professional level of confidentiality regarding all ESC matters

Supports the mission, goals, and objectives of the ESC strategic plan

Manages time, calendar, and job responsibilities to meet deadlines

190 Days