Assist with classroom activities; is concerned with the health and safety of the children. Performs educational and non educational functions which contributes to the development of the child. The teacher works with children and parents and serves as a guide for team members involved and contributing to the development of the child.

Professional position subject to the direction and guidance of the Education coordinator. The incumbent of this position assists in providing an educational climate in the classroom that insures a healthy and safe facility, is concerned and involved in all services which contribute to the full development of the child. Performs educational work involving instruction of the children and reports to parents; contributes specialized skills in Early Childhood Education. Responsible for necessary records and related reports concerning children. Attends in service training and meetings, which contribute to professional growth when requested to do so. Examples of work:

• Greets children and parents on arrival at the center
• Insures a healthy and safe atmosphere conducive to learning
• Assists in developing and implementing a daily and an overall instructional plan in conjunction with team members and parents
• Keeps abreast of new education research and apply to the program, when found to be a positive educational trend in improving the quality of training for children
• Responsible for keeping necessary records and reports and evaluations concerning children
• Works closely with the Education Coordinator and staff.
• Guides parents in classroom participation, observation and follow-up activities.
• Confers with parents frequently regarding progress of individual child.
• Makes required home visits and conducts parent conferences for all children.
• Conducts required fire drill exercises and necessary emergency awareness training.
• Responsible for the safety and security of the Head Start area during school hours.
• Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of classroom equipment and materials.
• Works closely with the Teacher III or IV in sharing all of the work duties in the classroom.
• Attends all staff meetings, in service training, community and parent meetings when requested to do so.
• Insures preparation of education materials required to complement daily activity plans and classroom work.
• Responsible for on-going observation data and record keeping for children including observation and progress records, anecdotal records, attendance records, IEP, IFSP, other records as required.
• Involves parents in weekly and monthly planning for at home continuity.
• Is involved with the child; provides supervision and guidance
• Plans, executes and assumes leadership for field trips with input from parents and center staff.
• Orders or requisitions equipment, materials and supplies for the classroom
• Confers with and follows up on consultant reports in the interest of the child.
• Works closely, as a team member, with other content area staff members.
• Does related work as required by the agency in providing services to children and families.
• Prepares and submits referral data for children.
• Models positive work ethic for parents and staff.
• Maintains confidentiality.
• Other duties may be assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Erie or Niagara County resident preferred.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

High School Diploma or GED

Previous Head Start experience preferred. Developing computer literacy. Willingness to work with low income children and families in their community.