Early Childhood Apprentice

Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation; Gray Summit (MO); On-site; USD 20,664 - 22,041; Part time

Job summary

Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation in Gray Summit, MO, seeks an Early Childhood Apprentice to assist in providing educational support in Head Start programs. This on-site role offers hands-on learning and a starting pay of $15.91 per hour.

Ideal candidates will have a High School Diploma and be enrolled in Early Childhood Education courses. Responsibilities include supporting Lead Teachers and ensuring a safe learning environment for children.

Qualifications

• Assisting in providing appropriate learning activities for children.
• Must be enrolled in Early Childhood Education courses in college.

Responsibilities

• Assist Lead Teacher in providing learning activities.
• Ensure children's safety in the classroom.
• Support children’s emotional and social development.

Skills

Understanding child development

Classroom management

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Enrollment in Early Childhood Education courses

Job description

Gray Summit, MO – Incorporated in 1965, Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation (JFCAC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to assisting low‑income individuals and families in achieving self‑sufficiency through quality programs in Jefferson and Franklin Counties.

JFCAC offers a variety of impactful programs, including early childhood education, rental and utility assistance, and home upgrades that improve energy efficiency and create safer living environments.

To carry out our mission and help new learners in the education field further their knowledge, we have partnered with local colleges to develop the unique position within our Head Start Program – the Early Childhood Apprentice. This is an on‑site role.

Position Summary

The Early Childhood Apprentice will assist in providing continuity of services to Head Start and Early Head Start Centers, and will gain hands‑on learning while earning an income and receiving guided support for early‑childhood education professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Teacher and Teacher in providing educational and developmentally appropriate learning activities for children, including special needs children.
• Assist in attending educational conferences and conducting home visits.
• Support record keeping of individual children, including daily observations, meal information, and medication administration.
• Help prepare meals and maintain a clean and sanitary environment at Head Start Centers.
• Assist a classroom of up to 20 children, providing appropriate activities and modeling family‑style dining during all meals.
• Ensure children’s safety in the classroom at all times, following all safety and supervision procedures.
• Provide educational assistance to Head Start children, including the creation of individual lesson plans.
• Support children’s emotional and social development, encouraging understanding of others and positive self‑concepts.
• Attend all agency trainings as required.
• May provide other basic support functions (e.g., record keeping, answering phone, etc.) as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High School/GED/HS‑Set required.
• Must be enrolled in Early Childhood Education courses in college.

Compensation & Benefits

• On‑site position – not a remote position.
• Rate of Pay: $15.91 per hour, bi‑weekly pay.
• Non‑benefits eligible.

JFCAC is an equal opportunity employer.