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Assistant Teacher - Head Start & Early Head Start Float

YMCA of Southwest Florida
Children Firstfull_timeVerifiedPosted 16 Jun 2025

About the role

Job Type Full-time Description

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Floater Teacher to join our Head Start/Early Head Start program. The ideal candidate will support classroom activities, provide individualized attention to children, and ensure a safe and nurturing environment for all students. This role requires flexibility and a passion for early childhood education.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

- Assist lead teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities.

- Provide support in various classrooms as needed, adapting to different age groups and learning environments.

- Foster positive relationships with children, families, and staff to promote a collaborative learning atmosphere.

- Monitor and document children's progress and behavior, providing feedback to lead teachers.

- Ensure a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment.

- Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.

- Support the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children through engaging activities.


Qualifications:

- An Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, preferred. A Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) minimum.

- State mandated 45-hour coursework completion or ability to complete within established timeframes.

- Knowledge of child development principles and best practices in early childhood education.

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

- Flexibility to adapt to changing classroom needs and schedules.

- CPR and First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain.


Skills:

- Strong organizational skills

- Patience and empathy

- Creative problem-solving abilities

- Ability to engage and motivate young children

- Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment

Children First is an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.


Requirements


Demonstrate/Knowledge to: ­

  • Provide effective and nurturing teacher-child interactions ­
  • Plan and implement learning experiences that ensure effective curriculum implementation ­
  • Use results of assessment to promote children’s progress across the standards described in the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: Ages Birth to Five and any applicable state early learning and development standards, including for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate ­
  • Set and maintain professional boundaries with families ­
  • Use technology to plan, record, report and monitor education and child development services

Ability to: ­

  • Speak, read and write English; bilingual language(s) is helpful ­
  • Collect, analyze and utilize data to plan and monitor growth in child outcomes and school readiness ­
  • Solve problems and make appropriate decisions ­
  • Manage time, solve problems and make appropriate decisions in varying situations ­
  • Work collaboratively and cooperatively with fellow staff, parents, and community representatives

Physical Demands:

  • Lifts and/or moves up to 50 lbs. ­
  • Kneels, stoops, bends, reaches and sits on floor to attend to children’s needs ­
  • Sitting, for working at keyboard and desk, standing, driving for home and site visits ­
  • Moves quickly in response to active children in need of redirection to protect their and others safety ­
  • Uses manual dexterity, reaches with hands and arms, stretches, and talks or hears ­
  • Responds both physically and mentally to emergency or crisis situations

Environmental Conditions:

  • Variability in temperature, environment and noise ­
  • Potential sensory response associated with toileting and/or children who are ill ­
  • Contact with children who are ill and/or possibly contagious ­
  • Contact with chemicals to clean and sanitize equipment and facility

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Company

YMCA of Southwest Florida

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