Head Start Teacher Assistant (#427) - Early Childhood Comple

Nex-Tech Classifieds; Hays (KS); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Nex-Tech Classifieds is seeking a Head Start Teacher Assistant to support the lead teacher in an early childhood classroom. The role involves helping implement curriculum, assessing children, and maintaining a safe, engaging learning environment in a busy setting.

The position emphasizes teamwork with staff and volunteers, input from families, and adherence to Code of Ethical Conduct. A flexible schedule and reliable transportation are important for success.

Qualifications

• Must have a High School Diploma or GED.
• Prefer candidates with experience working with young children.
• Must pass Kansas Bureau of Investigation background check and a physical exam.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule and be a team player.

Responsibilities

• Assist lead teacher in developing and implementing the education curriculum.
• Work with the teacher to plan individual child goals and activities.
• Assist in ongoing child assessment and environmental setup to support development.
• Provide a safe and healthy learning environment, including classroom and outdoor activities.
• Engage with families to promote life skills and establish rapport for program involvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the teacher and coordinators.

Skills

Good communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Team player

Decision making

Driver's license

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Head Start Teacher Assistant (#427) - Early Childhood Comple

To assist the lead teacher and share responsibilities to ensure a well-managed center.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Assists in developing and implementing the current education curriculum.

Works with teacher to plan individual child goals and activities.

Participates in on-going child assessment.

Works with the teacher to organize the environment to support children’s development.

Supports children’s learning in every area of the classroom and outdoors.

Participates in team teaching possibilities.

Works with individual children, implementing lesson plans and activities to meet classroom individual goals as well as IEP goals and objectives.

2. Provides a safe and healthy learning environment.

Follows staffing pattern as assigned by teacher to ensure children’s safety.

Performs cleaning and organizing duties as assigned.

Assists teacher in providing positive guidance to children.

3. Maintains an open communication system.

Participates openly in classroom meetings.

Practices open communication with staff, families, and volunteers.

Participates in program activities as appropriate.

4. Engages and supports children and families to enhance life skills.

Establishes and maintains rapport with families which is open, honest and caring.

Attends and assists with parent activities.

Models skills which promote healthy environments for children.

5. Promotes and respects the Code of Ethical Conduct as set forth by NAEYC.

Maintains a professional manner and appearance at all times.

Adheres to a mandatory reporting policy for child abuse and neglect.

6. Completes all other duties as assigned.

Scope of position:

Reports to the teacher. Receives moderate supervision from teacher and central office staff. Supervises children and volunteers. Works with 1-5 staff members and volunteers. Position requires decisions regarding duties and responsibilities. Moderate decisions need to be made related to children and families. Assumes supervision of the classroom during the absence of the teacher. Ongoing staff development is an integral part of the position.

Knowledge, skills, and technical ability:

Must have a High School Diploma or General Education Degree. Prefer candidates with experience working with young children.

Must pass prior to starting position:

Kansas Bureau of Investigation background check

Physical Exam

Physical Requirements:

Frequent lifting of 10-25 lbs.

Occasional lifting & moving of 50 lbs.

Bending, squatting, and kneeling occur frequently on a daily basis.

Fine manipulation occurs frequently.

Requires:

Good communication skills including oral, written, and listening.

Interpersonal skills working with children, volunteers, families, and community members.

Ability to make good decisions.

Willingness to work a flexible schedule.

Willingness to work as a team player.

Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable means of transportation.

Working conditions:

Assistants work 98% of the time in the classroom. Conditions include a high noise level and a fast-paced schedule. About 2% of the time is spent working with families or in the community. Must be able to lift, move and handle up to 50 pounds. Position requires much physical activity interacting with children and requires the ability to work in a noisy environment.

Compensation:

Based on the USD 489 Paraprofessional Salary Schedule and benefit package. Compensation will be provided for non-district days worked.