Assistant Teacher - Head Start & Early Head Start Float
YMCA of Southwest FloridaAbout the role
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.
RequirementsKey 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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