Associate Teacher

SUMMARY

The Associate Teacher plans, directs, and implements all classroom activities. Directs all aspects of the classroom in which assigned. Assures that all aspects of children assessment are completed daily and ongoing. Is expected to work cooperatively with Teacher Assistant in the classroom.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned and may not cover all non-essential functions of this position.

To participate in center team planning of program, to plan daily for the designated children under his/her care.

To do daily classroom inspections to assure a safe learning environment.

Implements developmentally and functionally appropriate individual activities which include teacher-designed and child-initiated experiences based on the needs and interests of all young children.

Provides activities which foster children’s development of respect for self and others, self-control, and self-direction.

Collects and maintains records from a variety of assessment sources (i.e., authentic assessment, screening, and anecdotal notes) concerning the progress in growth, health, and behavior in each area of development, and to develop an individual curriculum for each child assigned.  Keeps all records concerning assigned individual children up-to-date, and to maintain any center records as requested by the Lead Teacher.

Uses positive guidance techniques and behavior to help children act responsibly (i.e., consistent, kind, redirecting, and modeling).

To provide for the maximum integration of disabilities children in classroom activities; by following specific instructions of Disabilities Specialist, Speech Therapist, Psychologist, Physical Therapist, etc.

Immediately reports all accidents to the site supervisor or any unusual incident or concern particularly those which a parent may contact the center.

Identifies nutritional issues appropriate of the age and special needs of children.

Assists in planning a program to involve parents in the classroom activities in conjunction with the site supervisor.

Responsible for generating non-Federal (in-kind) match for LKLPHS. Encourages volunteering by parents and community people.

To make a minimum of two (2) home visits on each assigned child during the year, to maintain parent contact throughout the year by phone, notes, parent visits to the center, for a total of at least four (4) formal contacts.

To make home visits and/or inform Lead of any child (ren) needing family services or follow-up when a child has been absent for 3 days.

To provide, written reports to parents of each assigned child’s progress.

Assists with serving meals to the children and participates in family style meals with children; eating the same meals unless noted otherwise by physicians’ statement.

Follow all rules and regulations as written in the Performance Standards and program policies.

To monitor constantly the safety and well-being of the children. To exercise good sense where safety is concerned. To never leave a child (ren) unattended and to take precautions to prevent accidents.

To assist other center teams, on occasion, by working at their center.

Immediately reports all accidents to Central office or any unusual incident or concern particularly those which a parent may contact the Director.

To become a certified TRIS trainer.

Participates in all training sessions and maintains professionalism through continuing education and professional development opportunities, even if it means out of town training and continues to pursue degree and/or obtain any necessary certifications.

All positions in the child development program are considered child safety sensitive and therefore must pass pre-employment drug screening and submit to random drug/alcohol testing throughout the school year.

Demonstrate dependability, be cooperative, and have willingness to accept supervision.

Respect parents and recognize their strengths and differences in life styles.

To observe confidentiality in regards to staff, families and children; by not discussing a child in front of that child or any child (ren); nor by discussing a child with parents or persons outside the program. Nor by discussing information about staff or families with persons not having the need to know.

Ability to maintain poise and self-control in crisis situations.

Ability to communicate with and be sensitive to the needs of people of various backgrounds.

Exhibits excellent interpersonal and leadership skills.

Ability to focus and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other agencies and to be cooperative in managing referrals.

Makes good use of time and acts professionally and responsibly in all work areas.

Capable of being able to maintain a professional relationship with all entities of people (staff, Board of Directors, Policy Council Members, Collaborative Partners, officials, and the general public).

Any other duties assigned by Head Start Director or Executive Director.