Head Start Teacher Assistant

Summary

As part of the Cocopah Head Start education team, and under the general supervision and direction of the Director and Lead Teacher, the Teacher Assistant is responsible for the support, planning and participation in the classroom, playground and the day-to-day Head Start activities. All Head Start activities are designed to enhance and foster all areas of the children’s development.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Assists the Teacher in developing a careful and creative program suitable for Cocopah Head Start children

Implements Creative Curriculum in the classroom

Performs and understands Head Start Performance Standards

Assists in providing each child with a safe, nurturing, stimulating, enjoyable and secure environment.

Facilitates activities for the Teacher, arranges equipment and materials in the classroom

Under the direction of the Teacher, writes weekly observations into the Teaching Strategies Gold program.

Performs all of the activities listed in the daily schedule; storytelling, educational play, music and movement, etc.

Assist in helping children improve their social competencies, gain social skills and build self-esteem

Attends staff trainings, meetings, and parent meetings as requested

Assists in conducting the daily health check list

Assists in conducting the daily environment

Assists the teacher in the completion of required reports; monthly reports, check points, etc.

Assists in recruiting classroom volunteers.

Distribute newsletters, flyers, and other information to families, as instructed by the Director or Teacher

Assists the Teacher in the implementation of any I.E.P. (Individual Education Plan) or I.F.S.P. (Individual Family Service Plan)

Actively participates in the development and implementation of the Teacher Assistant Professional Development Plan

Willing to learn and practice distance learning techniques; filming, editing, etc.

Assists with breakfast, lunch, snacks, and any other meals as necessary.

Assists with all necessary cleaning duties.

Act as bus monitor for children pick-up and/or drop-off

Accepts supervision and follow through on recommendations made by Teacher, Director, Administration and/or service providers, and consultants.

Other duties may be required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Excellent understanding of the principles of child development and Head Start educational methods

Experience working in a team setting and excellent communication and instructional skills

Ability to work with the Teacher to plan, organize and implement classroom activities and responsibilities

Computer and office skills including, but not limited to Microsoft Office, telephone, fax machine, & copier

Must be able to travel and must be able to enter and exit a vehicle without assistance, and withstand exposure to adverse weather conditions

Demonstrate effective and appropriate interpersonal relationships with students, educational staff, parents and staff. Respect the confidentiality of information regarding students and be discreet in dealing with parents and educational personnel

Must be able to lift a minimum of 55 pounds

Familiarity with safety and sanitation guidelines for classrooms

Experience working with a culturally diverse staff and clients

Qualifications

Working Conditions:

• Possible exposure to blood and bodily fluids or tissues
• Possible exposure to communicable diseases
• Job requires standing for long periods of time, as well as stooping, squatting, kneeling, and running; and a moderate amount of driving is required.
• Minimum of 21 years or older
• Must have a current Health Card
• First Aide/CPR certification preferred, or certification must be obtained after employment
• Must be able to pass T.B. skin testing, x-ray, and yearly physical examination
• Must be able to pass finger print DPS background check
• Personal qualifications: emotional maturity, willingness to cooperate with the aims of the program, respect for children and adults. Flexibility, patience, good personal hygiene, and physical and mental health which does not interfere with the job responsibilities
• Valid Arizona Driver’s License and proof of vehicle liability insurance
• Minimum of 21 years or older
• Must have a current Health Card
• First Aide/CPR certification preferred, or certification must be obtained after employment
• Must be able to pass T.B. skin testing, x-ray, and yearly physical examination
• Must be able to pass finger print DPS background check

Education and/or Experience

Associate’s Degree working towards a Bachelor's degree in child development, early Childhood Education or in related filed is required.

High School Diploma/GED required

C.D.A., or C.C.P. credential is required

2-year work experience in related field

We Offer Great Fringe Benefits for our Full-time Positions

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life/AD&D Insurance, Employee Assistance Program,

401K Plan with Employer Match, Ancillary Benefits (AFLAC, VTL)

Disclaimers: There are suitability standards that all applicants must meet to obtain employment with Cocopah Casino and the Cocopah Indian Tribe. Applicants who have felonies, warrants, outstanding tickets, and misdemeanors for shoplifting, weapons, theft, or numerous drug convictions will not be eligible for employment.

By our policy and procedure manual, newly hired employees' pay shall be set to at least the minimum value of the pay schedule to which the position has been allocated according to our Pay schedule based on education and experience, but pay shall not exceed the mid-point for the pay grade.

AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The Cocopah Indian Tribe is a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination employer. All employees are required to be fully vaccinated as a condition of employment.

The opening and closing of these positions are subject to change upon the needs of each department. For more information please contact Cocopah Human Resources at 928-627-2102.