Head Start Teacher Assistant - Boswell 2

Liftca; Oklahoma; On-site; USD 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A community action agency in Oklahoma is seeking a Head Start Teacher Assistant who will support the Head Start Teacher in providing quality care and education to young children. This role includes supervising staff, ensuring classroom compliance with standards, training new staff, and maintaining positive relationships with families. The position requires a strong understanding of child development and a commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment for diverse families.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must enroll in CDA or Associate's Degree within 18 months.
• CPR Certification within 90 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Supervise classroom staff and manage operations.
• Develop and monitor staff training plans.
• Conduct home visits and parent/teacher conferences.

Skills

Supervision

Communication

Teamwork

Cultural sensitivity

Child development understanding

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CDA or Associate's Degree

First Aid and Infant/Toddler CPR certification

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Head Start Teacher Assistant will assist the Head Start Teacher in all aspects of caring for and training children enrolled in the Head Start Program. The role emphasizes the development of the whole child and partnering with parents. Must be proficient in reading, speaking, and writing in English, provide a safe environment, and maintain regular attendance. Responsible for continuing classroom activities in the absence of the Teacher, administering instructional activities, and evaluating children as directed. This is a Safety Sensitive position.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervise and guide classroom staff and volunteers, manage classroom operations, and provide coaching to Teacher Assistants, Special Needs Aides, and volunteers.
• Ensure policies and procedures are properly applied by teachers.
• Develop and monitor staff training plans, assess training needs, and participate in in-service training.
• Observe and evaluate classroom effectiveness and Teacher Assistants' performance.
• Participate in curriculum development and meet regularly with teachers on lesson plans and classroom management.
• Implement Head Start curriculum and Performance Standards, designing meaningful experiences for children.
• Work as part of a team to determine and meet the individual needs of children, maintaining professional relationships with staff, families, and supervisors.
• Participate in staff meetings, case management, and training sessions; consult with service providers on child development concerns.
• Conduct home visits and parent/teacher conferences per schedule, ensuring positive home-classroom connections.
• Communicate professionally with parents and children, encouraging parental involvement and providing activities to support learning at home.
• Use positive guidance methods, avoiding physical punishment or humiliation, and maintain appropriate tone and language with children and parents.
• Share mealtimes with children, following dietary needs and maintaining a child-oriented environment; restrict beverages during meals.
• Maintain a drug-free, respectful environment; limit cell phone use to emergencies; avoid vulgar language; and prohibit smoking on premises.
• Respect and support cultural diversity among children and families, assisting non-English-speaking families.
• Complete documentation and reports timely, assist with projects, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Maintain good attendance, participate positively in activities, and recruit in the community following procedures.
• Keep accurate records, including attendance, USDA food reports, and family information, maintaining confidentiality.
• Participate in parent meetings, special events, and professional development activities; support the program's philosophy and mission.
• Perform cleaning duties as needed, and understand that duties may be reassigned as necessary.

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP:

Works under the supervision of the Head Start Teacher, with no direct supervision of others.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Must enroll in and complete a CDA or an Associate's Degree within 18 months, with satisfactory progress.
• First Aid and Infant/Toddler CPR certification within 90 days of hire.
• Clear criminal record check; no serious criminal history.
• Understanding of low-income family dynamics and parental roles in education.
• Physical health examination and TB screening required.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and insurance.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to sit, stand, stoop, bend, walk, and perform physical activities with children, lift up to 40 pounds, and operate office equipment. Work environment includes indoor classrooms and occasional contact with childhood diseases. Visual monitoring of children is constant.

I have read and understand this job description, my questions are answered, and I am qualified to perform these duties. I acknowledge that duties may change as needed.

LIFT Community Action Agency, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This job description outlines essential functions; reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities. This position is Non-Exempt under FLSA.