26-27 Paraprofessional, Head Start

PLEASE NOTE: Applicants meeting at least one of the following qualifications need only apply:

Successfully passed Paraprofessional Praxis or completed a minimum 60 college credit hours

Within the first 2 years of employment must obtain CDA or Associates Degree in Early Childhood Development (Grant for funding of the full CDA/Associates is available though Head Start)

This is a full-time (7 hours/day, 5 days/week/ 188 Days per yr) position.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or GED

Must have CDA credentials and/or minimum Associates Degree in Early Childhood

Successful experience working with preschool children desired

Able to lift, carry, and hold children up to 50 pounds

Ability to stoop, crawl, kneel, bend in order to speak with children a the child's eye level, to play with children and to pick up toys/materials and equipment from floor.

JOB GOAL:

To assist the teacher in the implementation of Head Start Performance Standards.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

To understand components of Head Start and be supportive of the team approach.

To assist in implementing a program for children that will provide experiences that encourage individual differences of the children regardless of special abilities, talents, ethnic heritage, culture, and language

Share responsibilities of maintaining the physical environment by assembly materials needed for the daily activities, being responsible for daily sign in/sign out of children, and participating in the daily classroom activities and making suggestions in planning and guiding of the learning activities

Understand, support, and implement a process oriented curriculum

Assist in communicating and establishing rapport with families

Attend and participate in parent and staff meetings and training sessions

Write personal notes, anecdotal comments, anecdotal records, running records, incident reports, and other correspondence concerning children assigned to his/her care as specified

Participate in at least two home visits and two parent conferences per year

Know and use appropriate, positive guidance, and discipline techniques

Maintain visual and auditory awareness of children at all times to ensure their safety in the classroom, on the playground, and on field trips

Act as a team member in lesson planning and record keeping

Maintain client confidentiality according to established policy

Attend all required meetings including designated evening meetings

Submit physical examination to include tubercular screening, upon hiring

Maintain current Food Handler’s Permit

Follow district policies and procedures

Perform other related duties as assigned