Head Start Program Aide

Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION

PROGRAM AIDE, HEAD START

REPORTS TO: Education/Disability Manager

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Works with a variety of teaching teams to implement Head Start Performance Standards related to the operation of the classroom. In addition to these standards, ensures that the classroom adheres to NAEYC and other applicable standards. Follows program protocol for holistic delivery of services to children and families.

QUALIFICATIONS:

CDA and/or some college work in early childhood education or field related to early childhood education preferred with one years’ experience working with pre-school aged children; or

High school diploma and two years experience working with pre-school aged children

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

Must be physically able to perform the duties of the position which may require lifting unspecified weights, standing, bending, use of hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; transferring individuals, stretching, walking, pushing and/or pulling

Must be able to walk frequently; occasionally sit, climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl and taste or smell

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, follow instructions and procedure manuals

Ability to write routine reports and correspondence

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form

Ability to use independent judgment and work flexible hours

Ability to communicate clearly with others, both verbally and in written form

Ability to organize, to show initiative and to pay attention to detail

Ability to work both independently and as a team member to build positive school-family partnerships

Ability to use logical, clear, concise reasoning to make decisions in performance of job

Ability to use and learn computer software and to calculate and comprehend basic math calculations

Ability to work with and relate to preschoolers and their families

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

EDUCATION SERVICES:

Follow direction of Head Teacher in assigned classroom.

By example, set the professional and caring atmosphere of the center.

Assist teaching team in ensuring that the physical space and materials provided fosters optimal growth and development and adheres to Head Start and licensing standards including health and safety requirements.

Be aware of the intellectual, physical, emotional, and social needs of each child and assist in planning with parents and staff for effective curriculum and other services to meet those needs.

Work with all staff to coordinate service delivery and to plan for particular children or families that may need extensive interventions or more comprehensive approaches to service delivery.

Coordinate with all other Head Start staff to integrate comprehensive services for Head Start children and families.

Become familiar with program policies and activities to encourage and support the home-school connection.

Work closely with and share information with supervisor and team members to coordinate services to children and families.

Be responsible for children's health and safety at all times during program hours.

PROGRAM OPERATIONS:

Maintain high level of confidentiality regarding Head Start children, families, staff and program

operations in accordance with agency and program policies and ensure for the confidentiality

of all records and materials.

Adhere to the framework of professional responsibilities set forth in the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.

Develop and maintain friendly and professional relationships with agency and program staff, parents and community partners and encourage participation in program and agency activities.

Ensure that all emergencies and accidents are reported to the Head Teacher and documented appropriately.

Follow program protocol as it relates to mandated reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect.

Practice universal precautions at all times.

Attend agency and Head Start staff meetings, workshops, and training sessions as necessary.

Maintain a gossip free work environment.

Other related duties as assigned.

Monday-Friday 15 hours (2:30pm-5:30pm)

Part-time