Head Start Classroom Assistant – Early Childhood Support

Maryland Rural Development Corporation; Edgewood (MD); On-site; USD 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan

Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Paid Time Off

Short Term Disability

Training & Development

Job summary

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non-profit organization serving Caroline, Cecil, Harford and Kent Counties as the official Community Action Agency. The Head Start Teacher Assistant supports the Head Start Teacher in creating a safe, engaging and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children.

Responsibilities include assisting with instruction, behavior management, and daily activities to promote school readiness and social-emotional

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; CDA or an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• Experience with preschool children in an early childhood setting preferred.
• Passion for working with young children and supporting their growth.
• Cultural competency and ability to work with diverse families.
• Ability to follow instructions and adapt to classroom needs.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Relationship building experience.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive to MRDC locations statewide.
• Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting.
• Must meet Maryland licensing requirements including medical evaluation and TB screening.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Start Teacher in planning and implementing lesson plans aligned with Head Start guidelines.
• Engage children in developmentally appropriate activities, including play-based learning and reading.
• Help observe and assess children's development and provide input for individualized learning plans.
• Encourage positive social-emotional behaviors and problem-solving skills.
• Supervise children to ensure a safe and nurturing environment.
• Assist with classroom organization and maintaining a clean learning space.
• Support children during meals, naptime, and transitions.
• Follow Head Start health and safety policies, including hygiene and sanitation.
• Develop positive relationships with families and communicate progress.
• Encourage parental involvement in classroom activities and Head Start events.
• Prepare materials for parent meetings and conferences.
• Work collaboratively with teacher, staff, and program administrators.
• Attend required training sessions and meetings.
• Ensure files are complete, accurate, and confidential.
• Think, concentrate, and positively interact with others.
• Arrive punctually every day; work under stress and meet deadlines.
• OTHER DUTIES: Performs related work as required or assigned.

Skills

Passion for children

Cultural competency

Follow instructions

Teamwork

Communication skills

Relationship building

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

CDA / Associate degree in ECE preferred

Job description

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non-profit organization serving Caroline, Cecil, Harford and Kent Counties as the official Community Action Agency. The Head Start Teacher Assistant supports the Head Start Teacher in creating a safe, engaging and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children.

Responsibilities include assisting with instruction, behavior management, and daily activities to promote school readiness and social-emotional