Head Start Teacher Assistant

Northwestern University; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dedicated workspace

Laptop

High-speed internet access

Job summary

Northwestern Settlement is seeking a Head Start Teacher Assistant in Chicago to support the Lead Teacher in delivering a comprehensive early learning program. You will help implement developmentally appropriate activities, monitor progress, and contribute to a safe, inclusive classroom aligned with Head Start standards.

The ideal candidate has bilingual English/Spanish ability, strong communication, and a commitment to family involvement.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Development or related field with 15 semester hours in Early Childhood Education.
• Illinois Gateways ECE/ IT Credential Level 4.
• American Red Cross First Aid/CPR Certification required.

Responsibilities

• Assist Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities.
• Support lesson plans aligned with the Creative Curriculum System for Preschool.
• Monitor and document children’s progress through observations and assessments.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences to support individualized development plans.
• Foster open communication with families and promote parent involvement.
• Maintain a safe and clean learning environment in compliance with DCFS and Head Start regulations.
• Participate in professional development, team meetings and trainings.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Oral and written communication

Collaboration

Organizational skills

Punctuality and attendance

Data entry and database management

Education

Associate Degree in Early Childhood Development

Illinois Gateways ECE/IT Credential Level 4

First Aid/CPR Certification

Job description

Job Title: Head Start Teacher AssistantReports to: Director of Early Childhood EducationCompensation: $43,0000 to $45,000 AnnuallyStatus: Full timeLocation: Chicago, ILFor over a century, Northwestern Settlement has been a cornerstone in the West Town community, supporting families through education, social services, and the arts. Our Early Childhood Program is a vital part of that mission, fostering a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children during their most critical years of development. We are currently seeking a dedicated and passionate Head Start Teacher Assistant to join our team. This individual will support the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that support the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of children. The Head Start Teacher Assistant works collaboratively to assist with the development and implementation of core curriculum that follows the Head Start Program Performance Standards, NAEYC Standards, and that of our Community Partnership CPS. This opportunity is ideal for someone who has a passion for helping young children grow and thrive.Key Duties/ResponsibilitiesAssist with creating a inclusive and supportive classroom environmentSupport implementation of lesson plans aligned with Creative Curriculum System for PreschoolHelp monitor and document children’s progress through observations and assessmentsParticipate in parent-teacher conferences to support individualized child development plansFoster open communication with families and promote parent involvementMaintain a safe and clean learning environment in compliance with DCFS and Head Start regulationsParticipate in ongoing professional development, team meetings, and trainingsIn addition to the duties expressly provided above, the Head Start Teacher Assistant from time to time will perform other duties and functions as assigned by their direct supervisor.Ideal Skills/TraitsBilingual in English/Spanish preferredExcellent oral and written communication, collaboration, and organizational skillsAbility to relate to our multicultural communityAbility to accept guidance and supervisionExcellent punctuality and attendanceSkilled in data entry and database managementEducation/ExperienceAssociate Degree in Early Childhood Development, or related field that includes 15semester hours in Early Childhood EducationIllinois Gateways ECE/ IT Credential Level 4American Red Cross First Aid/CPR CertificationComplete all forms upon offer and acceptance as per DCFS, City of Chicago and Head Startlicensing standards (including 3 letters of recommendation, Criminal Background Check,Fingerprinting and Childs Abuse and Neglect Background Check, etc…)Compensation & Benefits:Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. We offer a robust health benefits package. In addition, all staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including a dedicated workspace, laptop, email, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.Statement of Non-Discrimination:Northwestern Settlement is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.******To ensure a good fit, we kindly ask that only serious and qualified candidates apply.*****