POSITION SUMMARY

The Teacher Assistant functions as a partner in planning and implementing the classroom-learning environment to promote school readiness by preparing children and families for school success and life success as it relates to this position. The Teacher Assistant assists and partners with the Teacher in providing high quality developmentally appropriate care and education for children ages 3-5 in a center-based classroom in the CPLC ECD Program. In partnership and guidance from the teacher the teacher assistant participates as part of a center based inter-disciplinary team to support the child in all areas of development while providing education, disabilities, health, and social service support to families. Abide by all state and federal regulations that apply to care and education of young children including the revised Head Start Program Performance Standards (issued 9/1/2016), Head Start Act (12/7/2007), and CPLC ECD Content Area Plans and Procedures. Actively always supervise children by sight and sound and in all environments. Maintain all health and safety regulations to create an optimum learning environment. Facilitate health practices to keep children safe in the school bus, outdoor and indoor environments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

• A Child Development Associate (CDA) or a state-awarded certificate which meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential, (according to Texas Child Care Licensing for Texas centers; New Mexico State Child Care Regulations-New Mexico Kids for New Mexico centers).
• A High School Diploma/General Equivalency Diploma.
• 6 months experience working in an early childhood development setting.
• 12 credit hours from accredited college or university (which must include at least 6 credit hours in Early Childhood Development or closely related field).
• PLUS being enrolled in a Child Development Associate Credential program which needs to be completed within 1 year from the date of hire.
• Education obtained outside of the United States of America (USA) and from another country must be evaluated from an accredited organization to determine equivalency to USA education standards.

Other requirements

• Computer literacy is necessary.
• Applicant must have basic keyboard skills and be able to use computer, computer software programs (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe) and web-based systems.
• Bilingual Spanish/English preferred.