Early Childhood Programs Teacher Assistant

Western New Mexico University; Silver City (NM); On-site; USD 28,560 - 30,747; Full time

Job summary

Western New Mexico University seeks an Early Childhood Programs Teacher Assistant to support daily classroom teaching and activity preparation in an on-campus setting in Silver City. The role involves assisting the lead teacher with lesson implementation and maintaining a safe, engaging environment for young children.

The position requires a High School diploma or GED, with CDA certification preferred and progress toward an Associate’s in Early Childhood Education.

Qualifications

• Must have basic knowledge of educational program principles.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff and parents.
• Spanish bilingual ability preferred.
• Experience supporting young children is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing daily educational plans for students.
• Support small group activities and maintain a safe classroom environment.
• Prepare classroom materials and supervise classrooms and playground areas.
• Document student progress and participate in parent conferences.
• Adhere to the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and participate in meetings.

Skills

Classroom management

Communication skills

Bilingual Spanish

Team collaboration

Education

High School diploma or GED

CDA certification

Job description

Early Childhood Programs Teacher Assistant

Assists in provision of daily classroom teaching and preparation activities of the Early Childhood Programs in compliance with established state and national accreditation standards.

Duties

• Assists Early Childhood Teacher in implementing daily educational and activity plans for students in accordance with established lesson plan.
• Assists facilitating small group interactive sessions. Implements age appropriate corrective measures and disciplines as needed and appropriate for management of safe and educationally conducive classroom environment.
• Reviews upcoming lesson plan, prepares all classroom materials in support of lesson goals and objectives.
• Adheres to the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment.
• Assists in the supervision of the classroom and playground activities, assists plan and supervise meals, snacks, and refreshments to children. Cleans and organizes classroom areas, toys and equipment. Assists teachers prepare for classroom activities. Escorts, assists, and instructs children regarding personal hygiene practices. Makes copies and cuts out project materials.
• Participates in a variety of department and staff meetings for discussion of issues, concerns, and programs requirements.
• Performs all necessary sanitizing and hygiene care both routinely and as needed for young children.
• Documents and completes student records. Participates in regular parent conferences to discuss progress and developmental assessments. Participates in pre-semester home visits of enrolled students.
• Prepares newsletters. Participates in monthly fire and/or emergency drills and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education / Background

High School diploma or GED equivalent or current Child Development Associate (CDA) certification while currently working towards an Associate’s in Early Childhood Education or related field and experience equivalent with young children. Bilingual (Spanish) preferred.

Job Knowledge

• Knowledge of basic educational program principles and practices.
• Knowledge of proper handling procedures for food.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate activities.
• Skill in applying appropriate communication skill to maintain classroom control.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with young children, staff and parents.
• Skill in working in an environment subject to noise, frequent exposure to contagious diseases, interruptions and quickly changing priorities.
• Skill in working with young children to help them complete activities and remain focused on assigned activities.
• Skill in working on an individual basis with children with special needs.
• Skill in preparing and completing a variety of projects and activities.

Working Conditions / Physical Demands

Normal classroom environment. May be required to lift, push, and pull office equipment and materials. Must be able to stoop, bend, squat, sit on floor and ambulate over uneven floor surfaces including stairs and steps. Must be able to visually and auditory assess situations to insure health and safety. Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises. Light maintenance such as shoveling, sweeping, mopping, throwing of trash, and others may be needed. May be required to work additional hours or days depending on circumstances.

Other Requirements

Certification in First Aid/CPR is required.

Location

Silver City-On Campus

Salary Range

$28,560 - $30,747