Classroom Assistant

## Overview The Classroom Assistant supports the YMCA mission by creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for children. This role helps deliver high-quality programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility while modeling the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. The position Supports delivery of enriching, age-appropriate activities in school-age programs. Assists with daily routines, homework help, and supervision to promote a safe, inclusive environment. Apply today and become part of the YMCA Stratford community! ## Description The Y is currently seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual for a **School-Age Child Care (SACC) Classroom assistant** to join our team for **morning and afternoon shifts** to support the Y’s mission through direct supervision and leadership of children in a school-age child care program. The classroom assistant position supports the mission and work of the Y by assisting in the daily operation of early childhood and/or school-age classrooms. The Classroom Assistant helps implement developmentally appropriate activities, maintains a safe and welcoming environment, and supports routines, supervision, and family communication in alignment with YMCA policies and licensing/health standards. **Essential Functions** - Models the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility with children, families, and staff. - Assists with daily routines (arrival, snack/meals, transitions, dismissal), supervision, and behavior support to ensure safety and positive engagement. - Helps prepare and lead age-appropriate activities under the direction of classroom leads/supervisors; maintains clean, organized, and ready learning spaces. - Maintains required ratios and active, visual supervision at all times; remains alert and responsive to child needs and environmental risks. - Supports accurate records (attendance, incident/accident reports, medication/allergy notes) and follows check-in/out procedures and confidentiality standards. - Follows YMCA policies, emergency procedures, and mandated reporting/abuse-prevention protocols. Attends required meetings and trainings. ## Requirements - Must be 16 years or older (under 18 requires working papers). - Experience working with children preferred. - Documentation of physical exam and TB Tine Test required (every two years). - Must complete CT Office of Early Childhood (OEC) Background Check and fingerprinting within 30 days of hire. - Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus. - Ability to teach and assist in activities. - Strong role model with integrity, adaptability, and communication skills. - Calm under pressure and able to respond to emergencies. - Observant, safety-conscious, and quick to react in emergencies. - Flexible work schedule required. - CPR/First Aid (Child Care) certification required within six months of hire. - Complete New Employee Orientation, Child Abuse Prevention, Mandated Reporter, Bloodborne Pathogens, Employee Safety, and Hazard Communication training before start. - Administration of Medications certification preferred. - Ongoing professional development as required by OEC and the Y.