Assistant Teacher

Description

Self Help Inc. is currently looking for an enthusiastic, passionate Head Start Assistant Teacher to join our team.

Agency Profile

Self Help, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Action Agency (CAA) created to help families and individuals stabilize and secure their lives through education, strategic assistance, and building opportunities in their communities. We provide a range of services for families and households across Southeastern Massachusetts.

Job Summary

The Head Start Assistant Teacher plays a vital role in providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children enrolled in our Head Start program. Working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher, the Assistant Teacher supports the implementation of the curriculum, fosters positive child development, and engages families in their child's educational journey. This position requires a passion for early childhood education, strong communication skills, and a commitment to the Head Start mission of promoting school readiness for children from low-income families

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development
• Help to create and maintain a well-organized, stimulating, and inviting classroom environment that encourages exploration and learning
• Work with small groups of children on specific activities or provide individualized support as needed
• Supervise children during indoor and outdoor play, ensuring their safety and well-being
• Assist with meal and snack times, promoting healthy eating habits and social interaction
• Implement positive guidance techniques to support children's self-regulation and social skills
• Help prepare materials and set up the classroom for daily activities
• Assist with toileting, diapering, and other personal care needs of children, following established health and safety procedures
• Maintain accurate records, such as attendance, observations, and anecdotal notes, as directed by the Lead Teacher
• Assist in the implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) for children with disabilities, as needed
• Support the implementation of child assessments and contribute to the development of child outcomes
• Establish positive and respectful relationships with parents and families
• Assist with parent meetings, workshops, and other family engagement activities
• Participate actively in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities
• Adhere to all Head Start Performance Standards, program policies, and licensing regulations
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families

Other Requirements

• Must pass a criminal background check and other required clearances
• Must have or be willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certification
• Must meet the physical requirements of the position, including the ability to lift and carry young children, bend, stoop, and actively engage with children 
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation is required

Schedule

 Monday-Friday

Hourly Rate: $19-$24

Knowledge, Skills and abilities

• Ability to interact effectively and sensitively with young children from diverse backgrounds
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and families
• Patience, flexibility, and a positive attitude
• Basic computer skills for record-keeping and communication
• Ability to lift and carry young children (up to 40 lbs.) and participate in physical activities

Education & Experience

• Minimum of a High School Diploma or GED
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential preferred. You may also hold a state-awarded certificate or license that exceeds the requirements of a CDA or are currently enrolled in a program leading to an Associate or Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education
• Experience working with preschool-aged children, preferably in a Head Start or similar early childhood program, is highly desirable

Self Help Inc offers a comprehensive employee benefits package:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• LTD
• FSA
• 403B
• Vacation Time
• Optional Time
• Sick Time
• Holidays
• Disability Benefits
• Life Insurance
• Direct Deposit

 Self Help, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended, and should not be construed to be, an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. It is intended, however, to be an accurate reflection of those principal job elements essential for making decisions related to job performance, employee development and compensation. As such, the incumbent may perform other duties and responsibilities as required. Its contents imply no contractual obligation and may be changed by the agency at any time.