Head Start Teacher Assistant - Boswell 1

**JOB SUMMARY:** **** The Head Start Teacher Assistant will assist the Head Start Teacher in all aspects of the care and training of children enrolled in the Head Start Program. The Teacher Assistant will teach with emphasis on development of the whole child including partnering with parents. Must have the ability to read, speak and write with proficiency in English language; provide and maintain a safe environment; and maintain regular attendance. Ability and willingness to assume the responsibility for continuing pre-planned classroom activities in the absence of the Teacher; administer planned instructional activities and evaluate children as directed by the Teacher. This is a Safety Sensitive position. **DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:** **** 1. Provide day-to-day supervision and guidance of classroom staff and volunteers. Manage classroom operations; provide supervision, guidance, and coaching to Teacher Assistants, Special Needs Aides and classroom volunteers. 2. Ensure policy and procedures are properly applied and interpreted by classroom teachers. 3. Develop and monitor individual staff training plans. Assess training needs and participate in planning in-service training. 4. Observe and evaluate classroom effectiveness. Evaluate Teacher Assistants according to program schedule, policies and procedures. 5. Participate in curriculum development and recommend necessary changes. Meet regularly with classroom teachers regarding lesson plans and classroom management. 6. Plan and provide a comprehensive program including implementation of Head Start curriculum, and Head Start Performance Standards. 7. Work in a team setting with all staff to determine individual needs of children. Provide guidance and direction to meet the individual needs of children. Design and implement plans that will expose children to meaningful experiences. Maintain professional relationships with co-workers, support staff, families and supervisors. 8. Plan and participate in monthly staff meetings, case management meetings, and in-service training, Consult with appropriate service providers, consultants, and staff regarding child development concerns. 9. Conduct at least two home visits and two parent/teacher conferences with each child's family per year, according to program schedule, policies and procedures. 10. Greet parents and children pleasantly and appropriately, ensuring a smooth transition into the classroom, a positive home-classroom connection and a family partnership. Maintain ongoing professional and appropriate communication with parents. Provide activities parents can do at home with their children to support the curriculum and the child's learning. Encourage parents to become involved in workshops, training and other Head Start activities. 11. Always use a positive approach and follow Head Start methods of redirection and guidance to handle misbehavior of children. NO forms of physical punishment or humiliation will be used. 12. An appropriate tone of voice and wording is required when talking to children and parents. 13. Must be able to sit and eat with children at mealtimes sharing the same menu. A physician's statement must be obtained for special dietary needs. Pleasant child-oriented conversation should take place during mealtimes. No sodas, tea or other drinks other than water is allowed to be consumed while children are present. 14. Smoking is not allowed on Head Start property. No vulgar language is allowed. Cell phone use will be limited to emergency use only. 15. Maintain an environment that is tolerant and respectful of child and family cultures, values and differences. Assist Non-English-speaking families. 16. Provide all information requested for program documentation in a timely manner. 17. Assist other staff with projects as requested. Perform other duties as assigned and reasonably within the scope of duties listed. 18. Maintain good attendance. Perform all duties in a safe, timely and professional manner. Participate wi…