Classroom Instructional Aide

JOB SUMMARY :

The Head Start Classroom Instructional Aide provides essential support to the Teacher and Assistant Teacher in implementing daily classroom activities that promote the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of young children in accordance with the Head Start Performance Standards and the program's curriculum. The Instructional Aide may be assigned to a primary classroom and is expected to float between classrooms as needed to maintain staff-child ratios and ensure consistent quality of care and supervision.

CHILDREN SUPERVISION RESPONSIBILITY :  Responsible for child supervision and for keeping children safe.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :

• Assist the Teacher and Assistant Teacher in planning, implementing and developing appropriate activities that support individualized goals for the children.
• Support classroom routines and transitions, ensuring a safe and nurturing learning environment at all times.
• Supervise children during all activities, including classroom, outdoor play, mealtimes, and field trips, maintaining appropriate ratios and vigilant child supervision.
• Assist in maintaining an organized, clean, and safe classroom environment in compliance with program health and safety guidelines.
• Provides individualized support and encouragement to children, fostering their independence and self-regulation skills.
• Assist with the completion and maintenance of child documentation and other required paperwork as directed by the Teacher.
• Participate in classroom team meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities as required.
• Maintain confidentiality of child and family information in accordance with program policies and procedures.
• Provide coverage and support to other classrooms as needed to maintain compliance with licensing requirements and Head Start Performance Standards.
• Physical ability to monitor and respond quickly to children who are very active and may need redirection in order to ensure their safety or the safety of others.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS REQUIRED :

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

HOURS / DAY

0- 1

1- 2

2- 4

4- 7

Standing

Sitting

Reaching

Driving

Walking

Twisting

Squatting

Lifting

Bending

Gripping

Keyboard use

Please Note :   Must be able to lift a child with an average weight of 50 pounds, if necessary.

AN EQUAL  OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER-THROUGH AFFIRMATIVE ACTION