Head Start - Assistant Teacher

New Britain-Berlin YMCA; Meriden (CT); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A local community center in Connecticut is seeking a Head Start - Assistant Teacher to support preschool education. In this role, you will collaborate with the lead teacher to create a nurturing and educational environment for children, including those with disabilities. Responsibilities include engaging in classroom activities, documenting child development, and communicating with families. A high school diploma or GED is required, with a preference for a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Bilingual skills in English and Spanish are advantageous.

Qualifications

• Experience working with preschool children is required.
• CDA credential preferred or enrollment in a CDA program.
• Effective communication with families is essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist the teacher in all classroom activities.
• Develop materials reflecting the cultural background of children.
• Screen and document children's development.
• Supervise children and maintain a clean classroom.
• Communicate with families to provide information.

Skills

Knowledge of early childhood development basics

Ability to relate sensitively with children

Strong communication skills

Bilingual fluency (English/Spanish)

Mathematical skills

Patience, tact, professionalism

Education

High school diploma or GED

Child Development Associate (CDA) credential

Enrollment in CDA program

Job description

Join to apply for the Head Start - Assistant Teacher role at New Britain-Berlin YMCA.

Job Summary

This role is part of a teaching team, partnering with the lead teacher to develop activities and provide a learning environment for preschool (Head Start) children, including those with disabilities. Responsibilities include assisting with classroom activities, parent engagement, documentation, and occasional classroom oversight.

Responsibilities

• Assist the teacher in all classroom activities, field trips and outdoor activities including lesson planning.
• Develop materials and activities reflecting the cultural background of the children and families served.
• Screen, observe, and document children’s development.
• Supervise children at mealtimes and support healthy nutrition and social skills.
• Maintain a clean and orderly classroom environment.
• Communicate with families to facilitate positive interactions and provide information on child development and program activities.
• Participate in training and education for families as requested.
• Assist with volunteer coordination and collection of in‑kind records.
• Attend workshops, staff and parent meetings as required.
• Understand and adhere to Head Start performance standards, local childcare licensing regulations, and occupational health and safety guidelines.
• Promote Head Start within the community and maintain strict confidentiality of children, families, and staff.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED plus experience working with preschool children.
• A current Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is preferred.
• Alternatively, enrollment in a CDA program to complete within two years of hire, or an associate or baccalaureate degree in any field.

Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of early childhood development basics and the purpose of the Head Start program.
• Ability to relate sensitively with children and work effectively with staff, parents, and families.
• Strong communication skills in writing and speaking. Bilingual fluency (English/Spanish or local languages) is preferred.
• Mathematical skills: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division.
• Reasoning: apply common sense to follow written or oral instructions and maintain confidentiality.
• Patience, tact, professionalism, and ability to project a supportive learning environment.

Certifications

• Basic first aid and pediatric CPR within 90 days of employment.
• Acceptable tuberculosis screening, clear criminal record, child‑abuse registry check, and initial health exam required after offer.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Occasional gentle physical restraint of children.
• Ability to lift up to 45 pounds.
• Exposure to communicable diseases and moderate to loud noise.
• Travel may be required for conferences, meetings, or events.
• Evenings and weekends may be required for home visits, parent conferences, and community events.