TEMP Teacher's Assistant

Position Purpose

Assists in creating a warm and caring and safe environment for young children while working under the direct supervision and observation of classroom teachers.

Key Accountabilities

• Ensures the safety and well-being of each child.
• Interacts with children in a warm, nurturing way while providing an appropriate adult role model.
• Models, articulates and encourages cooperative behavior among the children.
• Assists in the preparation of nutritious snacks and helps children develop good nutrition and hygiene habits.
• Assists in the maintenance of equipment and materials and ensures the cleanliness and orderliness of the classroom and kitchen.
• Supports the teaching team and the childcare center activities in a timely, caring and professional manner.
• Directs problems or concerns that may arise with children or parents to the teachers/director.
• Changes diapers and clothing following center protocol.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings, attends all required teacher in-service and recurring training seminars.
• Assists classroom teachers as requested or assigned.

Degree of Independent Action Performed

Incumbent works under the guidance of the Director of Harris Family Children’s Center and classroom teachers, but is expected to work with a high level of independence and autonomy, and exercise a high degree of initiative, influence, and judgment in decisions impacting staff and department operations .

Expected to solve problems or address issues that require immediate attention.

Direct/Indirect Reports

None

Position Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or GED is preferred.
• Some college experience helpful.
• Must have CPR and First Aid training or be willing to get certification.

Experience

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Experience with infants, toddlers, and/or pre-school age children required.
• Experience working with adolescents in an educational setting preferred .

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to develop and maintain collegial relationships.
• Demonstrate respect for diversity of identities and experiences, an orientation toward equity and inclusion, and cultural competency in all aspects of Academy life.
• Ability to multi-task and shift priorities frequently.
• Ability to teach in a team atmosphere with high energy, flexibility, and patience.
• Ability to follow verbal and written directions, maintain a professional demeanor and restraint at all times, including stressful situations.
• Must possess excellent guest service and hospitality skills.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work with students by building trust and credibility.
• Excellent analytical and problem solving skills as well as a strong customer focus.
• A strict adherence to confidential policies is required.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficient in MS Office.
• Willingness and ability to learn additional applications as needed.
• High degree of organizational skills with the ability to be flexible and multi-task with accuracy.
• Ability to follow verbal and written directions, maintain a professional demeanor and restraint at all times, including stressful situations.

Physical Requirements

1. Physical demands are in excess of those for sedentary work and will require the ability to remain standing for extended periods of time, go up and down flights of steps, lift children in carriers and push/pull heavy strollers and wagons as well as stoop, kneel, and crouch.
2. Ability to lift and transport up to 50lbs without assistance.
3. Must be physically and mentally capable of performing multiple tasks under stressful situations and able to function in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Requirements

1. Successfully complete a criminal background check (reviewed every 3 years).