Head Start Instructional Assistant, Cleveland

Primary Purpose:

To comply with all federal guidelines (Head Start Performance Standards, Transmittal Notices, etc.) and local Head Start/Early Head Start policies in providing children and families with Head Start/Early Head Start services.  To assist teachers in providing children with a learning environment and varied experiences which will help them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development and toward the overall goal of social competence.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification

• High School diploma or GED required
• Child Development Associate (CDA) or willingness to obtain within one year required
• Current first aid/ CPR certification or willingness to obtain required

Skills

• Experience working with young children preferred
• Loving, nurturing disposition toward young children required
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred
• Clear background history checks at the local, state, and federal levels required (Background checks are conducted by the ESC at no cost to the applicant.)
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions and uphold the high standards of the Head Start quality of care according to the Head Start Performance Standards
• Moderate technology skills required
• Willing to uphold the Head Start Standards of Conduct required
• Must be service driven with the ability to assume personal responsibility and maintain a positive outlook
• Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, possess the ability to work as a team player, enjoy a variety of activities, and possess organizational abilities

Working Conditions:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom and nursery equipment such as toys, playgrounds, multiple-rider strollers, etc.; personal computer and printer
• Posture: Must be physically able to tolerate frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Must be physically able to participate in moderate to high levels of physical activity, such as, but not limited to, standing for moderate to lengthy periods of time, frequent squatting and sitting on the floor, frequent walking, and overhead reaching, occasional driving
• Lifting: Must be physically able to tolerate regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds or more)
• Environment: Must be physically able to tolerate cleaning products and sanitizers, work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; frequent exposure to bodily fluids; tolerate occasional travel between work sites
• Mental Demands: Must be able to work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress and self-control in the presence of children
• Regular Attendance is an essential function

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Engages in respectful goal-oriented partnerships with families to promote student success and family well-being
2. Cooperates with and assists teacher regarding classroom operations
3. Assists children with diapering and toilet training using Early Head Start/Head Start approved procedures
4. Actively supervises and interacts with children during all activities
5. Uses calm, non-threatening voice
6. Demonstrates respect for each child and accepts differences in children
7. Corrects through conversation and models expected behavior
8. Follows safety and environment regulations
9. Maintains confidentiality of child and family information
10. Models correct speech patterns and vocabulary for children
11. Interacts in a positive manner with parents and treats them with respect
12. Maintains a safe playground environment
13. Acts as primary caregiver in the teacher’s absence
14. Substitutes in classes as needed
15. Follows teacher's instructions for lesson plans
16. Provides emergency medical care as needed
17. Eats one meal daily with children (sharing the same menu) and assists children with clean up
18. Monitors the appropriate approved persons to pick up the children
19. 19. Cleans and sanitizes materials throughout the day and completes required documentation
20. Complies with center policies
21. Supports program policies and changes
22. Completes and submits all forms by due dates
23. Attends all required staff development and meetings
24. Attends parent meetings as required
25. Attends home visits as needed
26. Completes appropriate Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential within timeline designated by Head Start/Early Head Start CDA advisor; maintains current Child Development Associate's (CDA) credential once obtained
27. Obtains and maintains first aid/CPR certifications
28. Complies with ESC personnel policies regarding absences and tardiness
29. Collects and analyzes information for improvement
30. Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities
31. Performs duties that directly and/or indirectly impact student performance in Region 16
32. Maintains a professional level of confidentiality regarding all ESC matters
33. Supports the mission, goals, and objectives of the ESC strategic plan
34. Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the ESC safety program
35. Performs professional responsibilities as required by ESC policies, processes, and procedures
36. Manages time, calendar, and job responsibilities to meet deadlines
37. Meets proficiency levels of required technology skills as outlined by supervisor
38. Incorporates appropriate technology in daily work and exhibits continual growth in technologies as outlined by supervisor
39. Performs other duties as assigned

190 Days