Head Start/Early Head Start Teaching Assistant

Cankdeska Cikana Community College; Fort Totten District (ND); On-site; USD 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Cankdeska Cikana Community College in Fort Totten, ND, seeks a Head Start/Early Head Start Teaching Assistant to support the Lead Teacher in daily classroom operations.

You will observe children, document development, enter data in ChildPlus, and help implement inclusive practices that promote school readiness while respecting Dakota values and language.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience with children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.
• Dakota values, traditions and language awareness.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist Lead Teacher with daily classroom operations and lesson planning.
• Conduct observations and document development progress.
• Input and manage data in ChildPlus with accuracy and compliance.
• Support inclusive practices to promote school readiness and holistic development.
• Maintain safety and supervise children at all times.
• Collaborate with staff to implement individualized plans for diverse learners.
• Promote Dakota language and cultural integration in daily activities.
• Engage families and participate in staff meetings and PD.

Skills

Excellent communication

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Culturally aware

Education

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education

Child Development Credential

Job description

Head Start/Early Head Start Teaching Assistant

• Supervisor: Education Manger
• Opening Date: February 9th, 2026

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Teacher with daily classroom operations, including lesson planning and implementation using the Creative Curriculum.
• Conduct child observations and help document developmental progress using Teaching Strategies GOLD.
• Input and manage classroom and child data in ChildPlus, ensuring accuracy and compliance with program requirements.
• Support classroom activities in alignment with the Head Start Program Performance Standards to promote school readiness and holistic development.
• Follow and uphold the CCCC Head Start Code of Conduct, demonstrating professionalism, ethical behavior, and confidentiality at all times.
• Practice active supervision at all times to ensure the safety and well-being of children during activities, transitions, and outdoor play.
• Maintain appropriate child-to-adult ratios and remain engaged with children to prevent incidents and ensure a safe learning environment.
• Assist in adapting materials, activities, and teaching strategies to meet the needs of children with disabilities in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher and specialized staff to implement individualized plans and ensure inclusive classroom practices.
• Support the integration of Dakota values, traditions, and language into daily classroom routines and activities.
• Create an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates the cultural identities of children, families, and staff.
• Assist in creating a classroom environment that promotes exploration, curiosity, and learning through age-appropriate activities and interactions.
• Use positive guidance techniques to support children’s social-emotional development and foster positive relationships.
• Build respectful and supportive relationships with families to enhance their involvement in their child’s learning and development.
• Communicate effectively with families about their child’s progress and classroom activities.
• Actively participate in staff meetings, professional development, and training opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Work collaboratively with the Lead Teacher and other staff to create a high-quality early learning environment.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and participate in activities at children’s eye level.
• Regularly kneeling, bending, and sitting on the floor as part of classroom interactions.
• Participates in family engagement activities outside of normal work schedule.
• Occasional bus monitoring duties, as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development Credential Preferred.
• Experience working with children aged 6 weeks to 5 years old.
• Culturally aware and sensitive to Dakota values, traditions, and language.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Appointment will be subject to the applicant’s successful completion of a satisfactory criminal background check and drug screening. CCCC gives preference to qualified Native American’s and Veterans in accordance with the Spirit Lake Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance (TERO). CCCC is an EEOC Employer.

Appointment will be subject to the applicant’s successful completion of a satisfactory criminal background check and drug screening. CCCC gives preference to qualified Native American’s and Veterans in accordance with the Spirit Lake Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance (TERO). CCCC is an EEOC Employer.