Assistant Teacher

Purpose of Classification :

The purpose of this classification is to assist teachers to prepare and implement all classroom activities while ensuring the care and safety of children in the Head Start program.

Essential Functions :

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.

Other duties may be required and assigned.

Works with the teacher to prepare and implement daily lesson plans and ensures a high level of interaction with children.

Meets regularly (weekly, etc.) with the teacher to determine the needs of the classroom. Provides assistance to the assigned teacher(s) to focus on child development techniques, safety practices and principles while establishing a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Conducts and documents ongoing assessments of each child’s growth and development through the use of observation, parental input, developmental screening, etc.

Maintains a clean, safe and emotionally supportive environment that is conducive to learning and is centered on the needs and abilities of the children.

Assist children in self-help skills such toileting, dressing, eating, tooth brushing, and any other areas involving health, safety, and hygiene.

Periodically conducts conferences with the teacher(s) and parents to discuss the child’s development and to involve them in program planning.

Assists in planning and providing training for parents in child development to reinforce learning activities in the home and identify the children with special needs.

Develops and sustains good personal relationships with a variety of individuals, children, parents, families, other staff members and agency services providers.

Engages in ongoing professional development and training to keep up with best practices and certification requirements, including education and care services for children with special needs;

attends meetings as required and serves as a spokesperson and advocate for the Head Start programs.

Participates in team teaching, staff meetings, conferences, institutions of higher learning, etc. to enhance professional development.

Additional Functions :

Performs other related duties as required.