Head Start Teacher Assoc Sub - 999840

Title: Head Start Teacher Assoc Sub 

Position Number: 999840 

Unit/Department: Drake Head Start

FTE: 40

Salary: $16.00 - $17.50 

Department Summary:

The Mission of Head Start and Early Head Start is a noble one: “changing lives to change tomorrow.”

Drake University Head Start and Early Head Start programs support the comprehensive development of children from birth to age 5, in classroom settings, home-based programs, & childcare partner locations.

Job Summary:

Drake University Head Start offers a comprehensive early childhood program. We are seeking professional candidates to serve as Teacher Associate Substitutes/Floaters at Drake Head Start locations across the Des Moines Metro area. We have multiple openings available.

Teacher Associates assist the teacher and child in daily activities in the classroom. They participate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of a developmentally appropriate practice. Teacher Associates work with the teacher to develop activities for children based on their interests and individual needs. They will encourage the children to develop a positive self-concept through supportive and cheerful interaction. Teacher Associates also assist with instruction by following lesson plans while adapting plans to meet individual learning styles. Partnering with the teacher, the Teacher Associate promotes successful classroom performance for each student.

Teacher Associates will do light cooking, assist the teacher, and work directly with the children. Some time spent completing required paperwork, including assisting teachers with documentation and observations of the students.

This position may include completing home visits for the Head Start and Early Head Start programs. This position will involve travel within a six county service area (Boone, Story, Jasper, Marion, Polk and Warren counties). Therefore, the successful candidate must have a valid drivers license and must meet the insurability criteria to drive on behalf of the University.

This is a 9 month, full-time, position that typically works August through May each year.

All Drake Head Start employees must assure compliance with Federal Head Start Program Performance Standards, state and local regulations and rules, confidentiality of all documents maintained in the department, and promote Head Start philosophy and initiatives. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• One year of work in an early childhood setting.
• Current driver's license and ability to be insured by the University's insurance carrier.

• Prompt and regular attendance. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• CDA (Child Development Associate) credential, or a Degree in Early Childhood Education. 
• Head Start experience.

Job Duties:

45% - Support various lead teachers by filling in for absences or as an additional staff member in the classroom. Occasionally conduct instruction by following lesson plans while adapting plan to meet individual learning styles. Promote successful classroom performance for each student. Foster a developmentally appropriate environment based on interests and individual needs of children where they are comfortable enough to verbalize feelings, question, explore, experiment, and problem solve. Present interesting ideas and activities to share with children. Encourage the child to develop a positive self-concept and support that self-concept with proper guidance and discipline techniques. Develop and maintain good communication while respecting confidentiality. Establish rapport and trust with parents, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Supervise children in non-classroom settings such as indoor large motor activities, playground, outings away from the classroom and arrival and dismissal with families, etc.- (Essential)

35% - Health, Nutrition, and Safety

Prepare breakfast, lunch, snack, beverages, and any required recipes by following proper and safe food preparation methods. With training and assistance of the Head Start nurse, follow written health/emergency care plans, and give medications as directed. Give basic first aid to any child or staff in need. Ensure that all health and safety procedures are followed in all classroom and outdoor activities. Provide assistance to children during their daily bathroom routine by offering direction and support when needed, including the changing of diapers and pull-ups. Participate in snack/meal activities by assisting staff with serving food, eating with children, and cleaning up after meals- (Essential)

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