Head Start Teacher Assistant

What You'll Do

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Classroom & Professional Growth

• Learn and apply proper classroom teaching techniques through training and observation. Demonstrate problem-solving and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Develop proficiency in screenings and assessments (including E-LAP) with a mindset of innovation, adaptability, and an openness to learning and change.
• Follow and develop lesson plans that reflect High Expectations, creativity, and Responsiveness to children’s developmental needs.

Collaboration & Family Engagement

• Collaborate with staff on center-wide initiatives like recruitment and volunteer engagement, acting as a builder, ally, and service-oriented team member.
• Work in partnership with Teachers and Family Advocates to support family needs (health, nutrition, social services). Ensure respect always, strong connections, and support.
• Value parents as the child's primary educator, utilizing a collaborative and No Judgement approach to family engagement.
• Participate in home visits and conferences, building trust through clear, honest, and supportive communication.
• Listen to the needs of the team and families, acting as a supportive partner in the classroom.

Compliance & Operational Excellence

• Support daily operations, including attendance, meal census, and hygiene routines, while maintaining a consistent, fair, and responsible approach.
• Observe and record assessments of each child’s growth with accuracy, accountability, and integrity.
• Coordinate documentation with the Family Advocate, ensuring honest, timely, and accurate reporting; questions are always welcome to ensure quality.

Agency Standards

• Maintain QRIS 5-Star standards, demonstrating consistency and a commitment to exceeding expectations through ongoing professional development. A minimum of 30 hours must be obtained.
• Communicate effectively and transparently with all stakeholders, from parents to program leadership.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support the Head Start mission, proving yourself to be a reliable leader and ally to the program.

Technology

• Must be proficient in technology, both software and hardware. This includes utilizing ChildPlus, KidKare, and Online LAP.

Other

• Performs other Head Start/Early Head Start duties required to accomplish the Head Start/Early Head Start mission.
• This position requires frequent travel to off-site locations.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a licensed childcare facility with children aged from one to twelve years of age, most of the children are between the ages of six weeks and three years. Activities are performed in all areas of the building, including the classroom, restrooms, cafeteria (if separate from the classroom), and on the playground. Activities are not limited to the center but will include field trips to child-oriented activities. Must be mobile and agile to perform required tasks such as lifting up to forty-five (45) pounds, reaching above the head and below the knee, or positioning the body as to be on the child's level and floor level. Must be able to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and able to run or walk hurriedly for a child's safety.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

• High school diploma or GED graduate.
• Current CDA (Child Development Associate) or Certificate of Mastery in Child Development or be willing to obtain a CDA or Certificate of Mastery in Child Development within one year from the date of hire.
• At least one year of experience working with preschool-age children. Volunteer services in a Head Start program may be credited.
• Must be willing to train in all areas of Head Start.
• Have no physical restrictions that would preclude working with pre-school age children.
• Must meet all state and funding source requirements, including mandatory fingerprinting and background checks.
• Must have a valid Oklahoma State driver’s license and reliable transportation available.
• Ability to work with diverse cultures.
• Ability to meet and maintain evolving work environment standards.
• Must be an OPDR member and annually obtain the required professional development clock-hours to maintain current OPDL certificate.
• Before, or within 90-calendar days of employment, complete an approved entry-level training listed on the Oklahoma Professional Development Registry (OPDR) website, such as ELCCT. However, this training is not required when previously received unless the individual has not been employed at a licensed program within the last five years.
• Complete training in Early Learning Guidelines.
• Complete one full set of Pyramid Model modules (birth to five, preschool, or infant/toddler, when applicable).
• CPR certified annually (or within 90 days of hire) and formal professional development in Safe Sleep practices before working with infants.

Benefits