Preschool Teacher Assistant

Description:

OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

POSITION SUMMARY:As a YMCA Preschool Teacher Assistant, you will play an integral role in supporting the Preschool Teacher in creating a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for young children. Your dedication, patience, and enthusiasm for early childhood education will contribute to the overall success of our preschool program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Classroom Support: Assist the Preschool Teacher in implementing daily lesson plans and activities that promote children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Support the preparation and organization of learning materials, resources, and equipment for classroom activities. Engage actively with children during indoor and outdoor play, mealtime, and other routine activities.
2. Child Interaction and Care: Build positive and supportive relationships with children, providing individual attention and encouragement as they explore and learn. Assist children with daily routines such as diapering/toileting, handwashing, and transitioning between activities. Monitor children’s behavior and well-being, addressing their needs with kindness and empathy.
3. Classroom Management: Assist in maintaining a safe, clean, and orderly classroom environment conducive to learning and exploration. Support the implementation of age-appropriate rules and expectations, promoting cooperation and respect among children. Help manage transitions and routines smoothly, providing gentle guidance and support as needed.
4. Assessment and Documentation: Assist in observing and documenting children’s participation, progress, and achievements in classroom activities. Contribute to the ongoing assessment and documentation of children’s developmental milestones and learning experiences. Collaborate with the Preschool Teacher, supervisors and other staff members to maintain accurate records and reports.
5. Parent Communication and Engagement: Foster positive relationships with parents/guardians through regular communication, updates, and opportunities for involvement in the classroom and program. Assist in organizing and participating in parent-teacher conferences, events, and workshops to support family engagement and partnership. Respond promptly and professionally to parent inquiries, concerns, and feedback.
6. Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the job.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

• Functional Expertise
• Program and Project Management
• Developing Self & Others

Requirements:

QUALIFICATIONS: The Preschool Teacher Assistant will meet the qualifications set forth by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care Health and Safety. Minimum qualifications include:

• Shall be at least 16 years of age
• Shall work under the supervision of an individual qualified to be a Program Lead.
• Staff shall be in good character and reputation
• CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire
• Completes all pre-employment requirements including background checks
• Adequate speaking, hearing and writing skills appropriate for interacting with children required
• Ability to be on time, every time for scheduled shifts required
• Ability to work at various program locations preferred
• Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds
• While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions
• Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking
• Will be exposed to cleaning supplies
• Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time
• Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications
• During peak program seasons, may be expected to work night and weekend hours to meet program needs

BACKGROUND CHECKS: An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks, E-Verify, drug test, driver’s license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS). Additional driver’s license check, CPS, criminal background check, alcohol, and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and/or maintain the requirements of this position.