Early Learning Educational Assistant I, II, III - Kainalu Elementary

Hawaiʻi State Department of Education; Kailua (HI); On-site; USD 33,700 - 39,361; Full time

Job summary

A state education department is hiring for Educational Assistant positions in Kailua, Hawaii. The role involves providing educational support to children, observing their development, and maintaining a safe learning environment. Applicants must have a high school diploma and one of several qualifications, including a Child Development Associate Credential or relevant coursework. The salary ranges from $3,019.78 to $3,526.98 per month based on the level of the position.

Qualifications

• Must have a current CDA Credential or be enrolled in a program preparing for CDA.
• Graduation from high school or equivalent is required.
• Ability to lift 65 lbs unassisted and 100 lbs with assistance.

Responsibilities

• Provide learning experiences according to established guidelines.
• Observe and assess children's development and document it.
• Ensure health and safety for children during activities.

Skills

Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

Experience in early childhood education

Observation and assessment skills

Ability to lift and carry heavy items

Education

High school graduation or equivalent

Associate degree or higher in Education

Job description

Description
This posting is being used to fill various Educational Assistant positions at the specified location. The authorized level of the position is Educational Assistant III. Applications are being accepted down to Educational Assistant I in the event of recruiting difficulties.

Salary Range

Educational Assistant I, SR-10: $3,019.78 per month
Educational Assistant II, SR-12: $3,260.76 per month
Educational Assistant III, SR-14: $3,526.98 per month

Examples of Duties

Early Learning Educational Assistant positions are located on school campuses that have Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL) Public Prekindergarten Program classrooms and serve children in the year before kindergarten entry. This position works independently to provide learning experiences in all areas of development and academic disciplines, in accordance with established guidelines, available resources, and the Early Learning classroom teacher. Some of the essential duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Cultivates healthy, challenging learning environments and experiences; converses with children in a positive manner during child-initiated activities and during routines and transitions; greets children upon arrival and ensures safe departure; instructs and models appropriate behavior; encourages positive social rapport; assists in guiding children during transitions and routines; addresses conflicts between children; engages with children during play to promote development and learning in all domains of development.
• Implements and assesses learning experiences for children based on plans and goals established with or by the teacher; sets up activities/areas for children to participate in indoor learning centers, small or large group activities, and outdoor activities; supervises and conducts group and individual learning activities; builds positive relationships and guides children through supportive interactions.
• Observes children and documents/assesses their development and learning; collects other data as directed by the teacher.
• Ensures overall health and safety for children; assists children in areas related to health and safety, including toileting, handwashing, eating, resting, and playing; ensures healthy and safe environment; reports and follows-up on unsafe play/work areas and materials; sanitizes materials and surfaces when needed; assists children in dealing with stressful situations.
• Prepares and maintains materials and environment for learning experiences; organizes and prepares learning centers as guided by the teacher; observes children’s use of materials and environment in order to provide modifications and adaptations; consults with teacher as needed.
• Supervises before, during, and after class activities.

Minimum Qualifications

Special Requirement: Applicants must meet one of the following options:

• Possession of a current Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential.
• Successful completion of training for a certificate that meets the requirements for CDA Credential preparation, including but not limited to University coursework at an acceptable institution of higher learning (e.g., Chaminade, UH System, etc.).
• 120 hours of formal training in early childhood education (covering the growth and development of children ages 3 to 5 years) available through community organizations (e.g., PATCH, HIAEYC, etc.).
• Be enrolled in a program, coursework, or training that prepares the individual to obtain a CDA Credential. Evidence of active pursuit toward completing the program must be provided annually to the EOEL.

Education Requirements

Graduation from high school or equivalent and one of the following, as described by the Federal Government's No Child Left Behind Act of 2001:

• Successful completion of an examination approved by the Hawaii State Department of Education (Department), such as the ParaPro or ParaPathways Assessment provided by the Education Testing Service (ETS).
• At least 48 baccalaureate-level semester credits from an accredited institution recognized by the Department, which included 3 credits in mathematics and 3 credits in English.
• An associate degree or higher from an accredited institution recognized by the Department.

Experience Requirements

Except for the substitutions provided for in this specification, applicants must have had the kind, quality, and amount of experience described below:

• Educational Assistant I: General Experience 0 years, Specialized Experience 0 years
• Educational Assistant II: General Experience 1 year, Specialized Experience 0 years
• Educational Assistant III: General Experience 1 year, Specialized Experience 1 year

One year of experience is defined as a school year, approximately 180 instructional days in Hawaii. General Experience includes paid or volunteer experience involving direct interaction with people and the ability to observe, evaluate, and report on situations. Specialized Experience involves direct academic, personal, social, vocational development, or behavioral services to children or individuals with disabilities, preferably in an educational setting.

Driver's License Requirement: Some positions require possession of a current, valid driver’s license.

Lift and Carry Requirement: Some positions require the ability to lift and carry up to 65 pounds unassisted and/or 100 pounds with assistance.

Substitutions

• Possession of a CDA credential or completion of a related program may substitute for one-half year of Specialized Experience.
• Successful completion of 15 baccalaureate-level semester credits may substitute for one-half year of General Experience up to 1 year.
• Successful completion of 15 baccalaureate-level credits in Education or closely related field may substitute for one-half year of Specialized Experience up to two years.
• Possession of an associate degree may substitute for one year of General Experience; an associate degree in Education or closely related field may substitute for all General and Specialized Experience.
• Bachelor degree or higher may substitute for all General and Specialized Experience.
• Additional substitutes related to TAP/LSP and high school graduates may apply as listed in the original content.

Quality of Experience: The required years of experience must demonstrate ability to perform the duties of the position.

Supplemental Information

Salary: The advertised salary is based on full-time employment and includes shortages and school year differentials, if applicable.

Requirements: Applicants must meet all requirements as of the date of application. Hours and education/experience may be prorated as described. Specific notes on temporary assignments and documentation are provided in the original content.

Documents and Application Details

Documents: Attach all relevant supporting documents to your application. Some documents submitted previously may not automatically attach to new applications. All submitted documents become the property of the Hawaii State Department of Education.

Temporary Positions: Temporary positions may be extended year to year depending on funding and needs. A temporary employee may become eligible for promotion, transfer, and other positions; benefits may apply as for permanent positions with exceptions.

Equal Opportunity: The Hawaii State Department of Education does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, or disability in accordance with applicable laws. The department also addresses other protected categories as described in the original content.

Paydays and Benefits: New employees can expect their first paycheck within the first 3 pay periods. 10-month civil service and SSP employees may receive a range of benefits including holidays, leave, health insurance, life insurance, retirement, and other programs as described in the original content.

Special Requirements and Questions: Required documents include any CDA credential, transcripts, or other verifications. Applicants must submit copies of documents per instructions. This section also includes a set of required questions for the application process as described in the original content.