Assistant Teacher - Head Start & Early Head Start Float

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. 

Key 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 

Apply