Head Start Preschool Assistant Teacher

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan

Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)

Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public

Short Term Disability

Training & Development

Job summary

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) seeks a Head Start Teacher Assistant to support classroom instruction and family engagement for preschool children. The role emphasizes safety, developmentally appropriate activities, and collaboration with the Head Start team.

Requirements include a high school diploma or GED (CDA/AA preferred), valid driver’s license, and ability to pass background checks and Maryland licensing requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; CDA credential, Associate’s degree, or ECE coursework preferred.
• Passion for working with young children and supporting their growth.
• Cultural competency and the ability to work with diverse families.
• Ability to follow instructions and adapt to classroom needs.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Effective written and oral communication experience.
• Relationship building experience.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive to MRDC locations.
• Demonstrated success in accomplishing tasks as outlined above.
• Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting.
• Must pass all Maryland licensing requirements to include medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Start Teacher in planning and implementing lesson plans that align with Head Start guidelines.
• Engage with children in developmentally appropriate activities, including play-based learning, reading, and hands-on experiences.
• Help observe and assess children's development and provide input for individualized learning plans.
• Encourage and model positive social-emotional behaviors and problem-solving skills.
• Supervise children to ensure a safe and nurturing environment.
• Assist with classroom organization, including setting up materials and maintaining a clean learning space.
• Support children during daily routines such as meals, naptime, and transitions.
• Follow Head Start health and safety policies, including proper hygiene and sanitation procedures.
• Develop positive relationships with families and communicate regularly about children's progress.
• Encourage parental involvement in classroom activities and Head Start events.
• Assist in preparing materials for parent meetings and conferences.
• Work collaboratively with the teacher, other staff members, and program administrators.
• Attend training sessions, workshops, and meetings as required by the Head Start program.
• Assure that files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained.
• Thinks, concentrates, and positively interacts with others.
• Comes to work promptly every day.
• Works under stress and meets all deadlines.
• OTHER DUTIES: (Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.) Performs related work as required or assigned.

Skills

Passion for young children

Cultural competency

Follow instructions

Team & independence

Communication skills

Relationship building

Driver's license

Background check

Fingerprinting

Licensing requirements

Medical screening

Education

High school diploma or GED

CDA credential

Associate’s degree

Early Childhood Education coursework

Job description

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) seeks a Head Start Teacher Assistant to support classroom instruction and family engagement for preschool children. The role emphasizes safety, developmentally appropriate activities, and collaboration with the Head Start team.

Requirements include a high school diploma or GED (CDA/AA preferred), valid driver’s license, and ability to pass background checks and Maryland licensing requirements.