Job Description
Job Description
Reports to :
Child Development Site Supervisor
Supervises : None
Exempt Status : Non Exempt
Work Schedule : Full-Time
Bright Beginnings, Inc. is a non-profit organization that operates early childhood and family learning centers for families in Washington, DC. Using a two-generation approach, Bright Beginnings Inc. works to ensure every child experiencing housing instability is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged; develop school-ready and kindergarten-prepared children; support families in breaking the cycle of inter-generational poverty; and partner intentionally to eradicate disparities and remove obstacles to economic mobility.
Summary : Responsible for assisting the Lead Teacher in developing and implementing a program of activities that promotes the social, emotional, and physical development of each child enrolled in a group in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards and Title 29 : District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR). The duties and responsibilities will be carried out under the direction of the Lead Teacher.
Essential Duties :
- Assist the lead teacher in maintaining records on each child’s progress and development for the purpose of planning and compliance with Head Start Performance Standards.
- Assist the lead teacher in implementing with fidelity High Scope, an evidenced-based curriculum according to policies and procedures.
- Assist the lead teacher with the full implementation of Head Start, NAEYC, and Title 29 : DCMR performance standards, policies and procedures, regulations and guidelines in the day-to-day operation of an early childhood development center, including developmentally appropriate practices.
- Assist lead teacher in reviewing the progress of each child and developing child portfolios and individual plans to promote each child’s growth and development.
- Observe each child daily to assess skills, interests, and needs and use this information to facilitate learning and growth.
- Develop a positive relationship with each child and promote the development of self-esteem and self-discipline.
- Establish a positive relationship with each child’s family and share information about the child’s day at the Center.
- Assist lead teacher in conducting home visits and parent / teacher conferences.
- Assist lead teacher in the full implementation of Individual Family Service Plans (IFSPs) or Individual Education Plans (IEPs)’s and inclusion of children with disabilities and special needs.
- Assist lead teacher with the maintenance a well-organized, safe and attractive classroom environment conducive to the optimal growth and development of children.
- Assist lead teacher with classroom maintenance ensuring a safe and sanitary condition by completing daily health and safety checklists in the classrooms and playground.
- Ensure universal precautions are kept at all times, including washing of hands upon entering classroom, after diapering, toileting, before and after meals, and after contact with bodily fluids.
- Assist the lead teacher with the implementation of health procedures on a daily basis, including following medication administration procedures, tooth brushing, sanitation, and administering First Aid / CPR.
- Assist with evacuation of children during fire drills, natural disasters, and any other emergencies, which may occur.
- Attend all staff meetings and professional learning provided by Bright Beginnings.
- Keep abreast of current knowledge in the field of Early Childhood Education.
- Maintains confidentiality of children and families at all times.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications :
Mission and culture alignment;High school diploma or GED with a CDA or 15 credit hours in Early Childhood Education AND one year of teaching experience can be substituted for CDA;
Must demonstrate experience and interest in working with young children, parents, and volunteers;Must demonstrate a strong knowledge of appropriate practices in early childhood development including working with parents;Must demonstrate success in working as a member of a team;Must have effective and strong communication skills (orally and written);Must demonstrate the ability to work well with young children;Must be willing to work flexible hours in order to meet the needs of the program;Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards preferred;
Strong computer skills with expertise in Windows-based programs, such as the Microsoft Office Suite;Must have DC local and Federal criminal record clearance, Child Protective Register check status, and substance abuse testing; andDocumentation of Tuberculin-free condition and health screening on an annual basis.Physical Demands :
Be able to lift 25-50 lbs.Be able to walk, squat / kneel, sit on the floor, see, hear, and speak.Be able to raise objects from a lower to a higher location or move objects horizontally from one location to another.