Classroom Aide

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The teacher’s aide will assist the teacher in the classroom and with related activities in accordance with the Department of Early Education & Care (EEC) regulations, as well as the Holyoke YMCA’s philosophy, policies, and practices.

OUR CULTURE:  
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing and we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Engage and help supervise children using positive guidance and support from Teachers.

2. Help plan and implement program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate, and consistent with YMCA priorities. Make ongoing, systematic observations and assessments used to create and monitor progress towards goals for each child.

3. Adhere to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards.

4. Attend and participate in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and professional development in accordance with individual professional development plan and EEC regulations.

5. Follow YMCA and EEC policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, emergencies, and recording professional development in EEC’s Professional Qualification Registry.

6. Models relationship-building skills in all interactions; develops and maintains collaborative relationships with staff, parents and caregivers, and community organizations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

· EEC teacher certification preferred

· Associate’s Degree preferred

· 3+ years experience working in an early education environment and committed to ongoing professional development.

· Current knowledge of and compliance with state and YMCA standards are regulations specific to early childhood education and the development of children.

· Ability to effectively interact with parents and children on a range of issues.

· Ability to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.

· Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.

· CPR/First Aid Certification within 3 months 

· YMCA Leader Certification within 6 months

· Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

· The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

· Able to lift thirty pounds

· Able to sit on the floor with children