This position entails tasks that are diverse in nature. The normal work hours are 8:00-5, M-F, but may be varied by the Site Manager to accommodate all hours the Center is open.
The Substitute is responsible to the Operations Supervisor. The Substitute is responsible for assisting the other classroom staff to prepare the learning environment and activities to achieve or support positive child outcomes. The Substitute should use good judgment and only engage in activities or interactions that are know to be appropriate for young children. Noise level could be moderate to loud in the center.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
• Assist other classroom staff in planning and implementing a child development program for Head Start classrooms that aligns with developmentally appropriate practices and meets Head Start Performance Standards/TDFPS licensing requirements.
• Assure child-staff ratios are maintained at all times according to Head Start Performance Standards/TDFPS.
• Maintain an open, friendly and cooperative relationship with each child’s family, encourage their involvement in the program, and promote parent-child bonding and nurturing parent-child relationships.
• Assist in developing lesson plans to include all program areas implement positive learning experiences to develop curiosity, initiative, problem-solving, creativity, sense of self and group belonging
• Maintain records of enrolled children and families in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards/TDFPS and program policies.
• Promote feelings of security and trust in children by being warm, supportive and comforting, and by establishing strong and caring relationships with them
• Utilize the Child Guidance Plan to maintain positive child guidance methods, Behavioral Tracking and appropriate documentation.
• Conduct home visits and parent conferences only at the request of the Site Manager.
• Regularly monitor children on playground and equipment to ensure safe, appropriate play and that children are visible at all times
• Respond to crisis or emergency situations that may occur. Provide First Aid or CPR, prevent the spread of blood borne pathogens, and assess the need for emergency services. Communicate with CD or designee about incidents/illness to insure appropriate reporting to parents and other as per program policies for Incidents and site visits by TDFPS
• Responsible for cleaning duties including mopping, sweeping, dusting, cleaning restrooms or any other cleaning duties as assigned by the Site Manager
• Promote Parent Engagement Activities
• Responsible for reporting to their supervisor or designee, if they witness or see anything or anyone not following the SPCAA procedures or processes that place a person or program records at risk
• Capture, value, and appropriately document In-Kind, non-federal share
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES OR JOB REQUIREMENTS
• In the absence of the Lead Teacher or TA, fill in for all essential duties of Lead Teacher or TA
• At the request of the CD, attend In-service, orientations, and special functions
• Assure that any accident/illness for children or staff is reported immediately and followed-up with appropriate forms
• Gain approval from Associate Director or Site Manager to assist in transportation of children/parents. While in transit with children,
► Maintain a calm atmosphere on the vehicle
► Assist the driver in transporting children and families safe and proper manner
► Ensure compliance with all laws regarding proper transporting policies
► Assist and be responsible for children and adults during boarding and un-boarding of the vehicle
► Ensure that all children and parents are properly secured in the vehicle according to the transportation laws
► Make sure no obstructions exist on the bus and that all exits are properly marked
► Assist the driver with pre-trip inspections
► Maintain discipline when children are being transported
• May assist in kitchen or with duties of Cook or Cook Assistant if needed for completion of food preparation, service or clean up
• The above statements are not a complete list of all responsibilities and duties performed by employees in this job. Employees may perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
• High School diploma or GED required
• Be at least 18 years old
• Teacher assistant or daycare experience highly preferred
• Embrace the principle of the parent as the primary educator and support attachment of parent and child
• Ability/knowledge of personal computer operations within a Windows software environment required
• Available for a light amount of night and weekend work
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
• Able to maintain physical condition and stamina appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include sitting or standing for extended periods of time, drive or ride in sedan, bus or van, and interacting with children at the child’s eye level (which includes floor activities) or other duties assigned.
• The usual requirements in a classroom environment may require lifting boxes of supplies, equipment and occasional adjustments of office furniture
• Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds
• Regularly required to sit for extended periods of time
• May require long periods of standing or walking
• Occasional bending or squatting required
WORK ENVIRONMENT
• Possess ability to adapt to inclement weather conditions and /or situations.
• Noise level could be moderate to loud in working in center.
• Ability to work in a stressful environment and deal effectively with stress
• Ability to adapt to flexible work schedules as established by management.
• Ability to work in close quarters.
• Ability to drive, occasionally long distances.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
• Normal to heavy travel—ability to travel for activities such as on-site technical assistance, meetings, classes and workshops in and out of the service area.