Head Start Teacher Assistant

Impassoc; Emporia (VA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development and training opportunities

Supportive work environment

Job summary

Impassoc is seeking a Head Start Teacher Assistant based in Emporia, Virginia. The role involves supporting the Lead Teacher in providing a positive learning environment for preschool-aged children. Candidates should have a High School Diploma or GED, with preference given to those with a Child Development Associate credential or relevant coursework in Early Childhood Education. The position emphasizes teamwork, communication, and compliance with Head Start standards in a dynamic classroom setting focused on family engagement. Opportunities for professional development are included.

Qualifications

• Must have a High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred CDA credential or enrolled in a CDA program.
• Prior experience with preschool-aged children is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist Lead Teacher with planning and implementing activities.
• Supervise the safety of children indoors and outdoors.
• Maintain a clean and organized classroom environment.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Child Development Associate (CDA)

Early Childhood Education coursework or degree

Job description

Head Start Teacher Assistant

Location: Organization: The Improvement Association Status: Full-Time

About The Improvement Association

The Improvement Association is dedicated to empowering families and strengthening communities through education, workforce development, and early childhood programs. Our Head Start program provides high-quality, comprehensive early learning experiences for children ages 3–5, fostering school readiness and lifelong success.

Position Summary

The Head Start Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in creating and maintaining a positive, engaging, and safe classroom environment. This position assists in implementing daily lesson plans, supporting individualized learning, and promoting children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. The Teacher Assistant plays a vital role in supporting family engagement and ensuring compliance with all Head Start performance standards and The Improvement Association’s policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities.
• Support classroom routines, transitions, and group activities that promote children’s learning and well‑being.
• Supervise and ensure the safety of all children at all times, both indoors and outdoors.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment.
• Assist with documentation of attendance, meal counts, and child observations as required.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and staff members.
• Participate in professional development and ongoing training to enhance skills and meet Head Start requirements.
• Support the implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) as needed.

Qualifications

• Required: High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred: Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or enrollment in a CDA program.
• Coursework or degree in Early Childhood Education is highly desirable.
• Prior experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom or childcare setting.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
• Must meet all Head Start and state licensing requirements, including background checks and health screenings.

Work Environment

• Active classroom setting with children ages 3–5.
• Collaboration with a team of educators and family support staff.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay based on education and experience.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment focused on community impact.