Assistant Teacher at Self Help Inc

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionDescription:Self Help Inc. is currently looking for an enthusiastic, passionate Head Start Assistant Teacher to join our team.Agency ProfileSelf 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 SummaryThe 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 familiesEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesAssist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical developmentHelp to create and maintain a well-organized, stimulating, and inviting classroom environment that encourages exploration and learningWork with small groups of children on specific activities or provide individualized support as neededSupervise children during indoor and outdoor play, ensuring their safety and well-beingAssist with meal and snack times, promoting healthy eating habits and social interactionImplement positive guidance techniques to support children's self-regulation and social skillsHelp prepare materials and set up the classroom for daily activitiesAssist with toileting, diapering, and other personal care needs of children, following established health and safety proceduresMaintain accurate records, such as attendance, observations, and anecdotal notes, as directed by the Lead TeacherAssist in the implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) for children with disabilities, as neededSupport the implementation of child assessments and contribute to the development of child outcomesEstablish positive and respectful relationships with parents and familiesAssist with parent meetings, workshops, and other family engagement activitiesParticipate actively in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunitiesAdhere to all Head Start Performance Standards, program policies, and licensing regulationsMaintain confidentiality regarding children and familiesOther RequirementsMust pass a criminal background check and other required clearancesMust have or be willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certificationMust 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 requiredSchedule Monday-FridayHourly Rate: $15-$24 Knowledge, Skills and abilitiesAbility to interact effectively and sensitively with young children from diverse backgroundsStrong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and familiesPatience, flexibility, and a positive attitudeBasic computer skills for record-keeping and communicationAbility to lift and carry young children (up to 40 lbs.) and participate in physical activitiesEducation & ExperienceMinimum of a High School Diploma or GEDChild Development Associate (CDA) credential preferred, or willingness to obtain one within a specified timeframeAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is a plusExperience working with preschool-aged children, preferably in a Head Start or similar early childhood program, is highly desirableSelf Help Inc offers a comprehensive employee benefits package:MedicalDentalVisionLTDFSA403BVacation TimeOptional TimeSick TimeHolidaysDisability BenefitsLife InsuranceDirect DepositSelf 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.DisclaimerThis 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.Requirements: