Assistant Teacher - Preschool

Overview

POSITION OVERVIEW : The Preschool Assistant Teacher is responsible for contributing to the planning, implementation and coordination of the comprehensive education program. The Assistant Teacher supports the lead in ensuring that the education program is developmentally appropriate and meets the individual needs of the children as mandated by Head Start, state and local standards, and the Educare model.

Responsibilities

• Participate in training to build an understanding of the Educare Model.
• Participate in the local evaluation and national Educare Implementation Study, engaging in a system of reciprocal, regular data feedback and utilization for individualized planning for children and families and continuous program improvement.
• Participate in Reflective Practice and Supervision throughout the program.
• Provide a high-quality early learning program that incorporates evidence-based curriculum and instructional activities.
• Support and provide continuity of care to help children develop secure relationships.
• Implement, document, and demonstrate an understanding of the importance of multiple perspectives and have the skills to be successful in interdisciplinary efforts.
• Collaborate with the family engagement specialist, Educare personnel, and support staff to promote individual children's goals in communication, health habits, physical skills, self-awareness, and early literacy.
• Participate in Family Child Service Reviews as scheduled.
• Attend and participate in all scheduled trainings; engage in coaching cycles with Lead Teachers; develop individual plans for professional development.
• Provide an enhanced curriculum focus on Language and Literacy; Social / Emotional development; Problem-solving and numeracy; Integration of the Arts.
• Engage positively with children and use appropriate discipline methods as outlined in the school's child guidance discipline policy.
• Assist in planning and implementing classroom activities that are child-centered, developmentally appropriate, open-ended and process oriented.
• Support children's ideas and creativity; help maintain an attractive, engaging environment that encourages independence and self-selection of activities.
• Position themselves strategically to actively engage children, provide optimal supervision, and facilitate play; use the playground as an extension of the classroom and ensure safety.
• Assist in daily routines including classroom cleanliness and sanitary procedures for food service and diapering / toileting.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to observe, document, and assess primary care children; identify developmental concerns and share with the Lead Teacher.
• Complete weekly lesson plans and small group plans for primary care children; participate in Family Child Service Reviews for primary children.
• Develop effective partnerships with families; maintain open communication and involve families in the educational program; schedule home visits and conferences as required.
• Under the direction of the lead teacher, assume lead teacher responsibilities in their absence; assist with data entry and classroom inventory as requested.

Qualifications

Benefits and Equal Opportunity

Educare DC offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, retirement accounts with company match, paid leave, and more. Educare DC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

J-18808-Ljbffr