Center Aide

Primary Role: To ensure continuity of care by planning and implementing daily activities for assigned children, performing other job-related tasks as requested by the Education Supervisor and/or the Director, and assuming full responsibility for the classroom in the absence of the Caregiver. This position directly relates to teaching, learning, and direct child care and supervision of children in alignment with Head Start Performance Standards, Birth-to-Five Childcare standards, and State Licensing. The Center Aide services all of the agency’s Early Learning sites.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist the Caregiver in weekly planning and implementation of activities (e.g., meals, field trips, rest time).
• Assume full responsibility for the classroom in the absence of the Caregiver.
• Use soothing techniques (e.g., rocking, back rubbing) to comfort children and promote emotional development.
• Assist with daily cleanliness, organization, and aesthetic appearance of the classroom and restroom.
• Attend required meetings and conferences with supervisors as requested.
• Maintain appropriate contact with parents regarding children’s progress and classroom activities.
• Ensure accurate, complete, and timely collection and submission of participant information for ChildPlus and Teaching Strategies Gold.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Education Supervisor or Director.

Required Skills and Expectations:

• Warm personality with the ability to respond to infants' and children’s needs, fostering emotional growth.
• Understanding of the dynamics of poverty, oppression, and societal prejudices.
• Ability to engage and motivate program participants toward self-sufficiency and resolution of challenges.
• Advocacy for program participants’ growth and development, believing in their capacity to change.
• Holistic approach to teamwork with staff, participants, families, and the community.
• Respect for participant integrity, privacy, and confidentiality, and adherence to agency policies.

Educational Requirements:

• Child Development Associate (CDA w/infant and toddler endorsement) preferred.
• High school diploma and/or GED required; must acquire a CDA within the first year of employment.
• One year of experience working in an Early Childhood Environment with children ages 6 weeks to 2 years.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment:

• Ability to operate various office equipment (computer, printer, etc.).
• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, reach, bend, and lift up to 10 pounds.
• Effective communication in Standard English, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work cooperatively with others and respond positively to supervision.
• Must comply with state and district regulations, policies, and procedures.

Performance Metrics:

• Classroom Responsibility:
• Maintain a 90% satisfaction rate from parents and staff regarding classroom management and child engagement as assessed through surveys and observations.
• Compliance:
• Achieve 100% compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and state licensing regulations during reviews and audits.
• Data Accuracy:
• Ensure a 95% accuracy rate in the timely collection and submission of participant information for ChildPlus and Teaching Strategies Gold.
• Emotional Support:
• Receive feedback from teachers and supervisors indicating at least 85% effectiveness in providing emotional support and comfort to children.
• Professional Development:
• Complete required training and maintain certifications (e.g., Pediatric First Aid, CPR) within specified time frames.