Assistant Teacher

## Description
# **SUMMARY**
Under the supervision of the Teacher the Assistant Teacher is responsible for providing a stimulating environment for the growth, well-being and development of the child.
# **PRIMARY DUTIES**

• The Assistant Teacher will assist the Teacher to:
• Provide a safe environment. Select materials and equipment and arrange the room to provide an environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the developmental level and learning style of the children.
• Provide the group with a positive routine and with simple rules that are understood and accepted by children and adults.
• Provide activities and experiences which encourage questioning, probing and problem-solving skills appropriate to developmental level and learning style of the children.
• Help children to acquire and use language as a means of communicating their thoughts, feelings and understanding of others. Provide experiences that stimulate children to explore and express their creative ability
• Help children to know, accept and appreciate themselves as individuals. Help each child develop a sense of independence and acquire the ability to express, understand and control feelings. Encourage feelings of mutual respect among the children in the group.
• Establish positive and productive relationships with parents and encourage them to participate in the Center's activity. Plan regular parent conferences with parents and make home visits.
• Organize the Class Committee.
• Develop the written individualized education plans as well as written weekly lesson plans.
• Develop the initial and ongoing observations, assessments, and recording of each child's behavior and make appropriate referrals based upon assessments, team planning sessions, CDT, etc.
• Maintain all necessary record keeping, (e.g. meal count, attendance, documentation of individualizing for each child, etc.) and make regular inspections and report the need for repair/-replacement of classroom supplies and equipment.
• Plan for and participate in the team planning sessions.
• Serve as a member of CDT when appropriate.
• Work cooperatively with other staff members in implementation of Center plans, activities, polices, and rules.
• Follow written policies and regulations established by the Center, Health Department and granting agency.
• Participate in workshops, seminars and assigned training programs that will facilitate ongoing professional development.
• Responsible for the class in the absence of the Teacher.
• In the performance of the job functions, the Assistant Teacher will demonstrate the commitment through participation in ongoing training leading to the proficiency in the CDA competencies.

# **SECONDARY DUTIES**

• Upholds the vision, mission and values of St. Vincent de Paul.
• Assists with and attends special events held by the Center and St. Vincent de Paul as necessary, attends meetings etc.
• Creates an atmosphere of care and respect for staff, volunteers and clients.
• Supports a welcoming and positive environment for volunteers and works with them effectively.
• Other duties as assigned, within the scope of the position.

## Qualifications
# **QUALIFICATIONS**

• 90 Hour Certification required
• CDA, preferred
• Associated Degree, preferred
• 1 year classroom experience, preferred
• Experience working with people who are/have experienced homelessness, living with substance abuse/mental health problems, and/or at-risk populations,
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Experience setting and accomplishing program outcomes.
• Ability to interact with people of varying ages and cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Sound computer skills.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.

# **PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS**
**ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS**
__X__ Primarily Indoor Work
**TYPE OF WORK**
___X__MEDIUM WORK: Lifting 50 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects up to 25 pounds.