Under general supervision, this position performs duties that support and serve in a position for which a Lead Teacher, Teacher, or Teacher Associate has ultimate responsibility for the design and delivery of educational programs or services and performs related duties as assigned.

The Teacher Assistant is the entry level position in the Teacher series. Incumbents are responsible for assisting in the delivery of childhood educational programs and services. The Teacher Assistant is distinguished from the next higher-level class of the Teacher Associate classification as this position assists with all classroom activities while gaining experience while the latter exercises greater independence and is responsible for the full range of instructional duties.

• Provides care and supervision of children which may include sitting, squatting, kneeling, bending, lifting, and carrying children as needed.
• Presents subject matter to students under the direction and guidance of teachers.
• Safely instructs, monitors, and participates with structured and free play activities.
• Assists in maintaining a clean, healthy, and safe environment.
• Assists in the planning and preparation of daily activities designed for cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. 
• Assists with meal and snack distribution and clean up, including carrying children.
• Facilitates the naptime preparation and clean up.
• Notifies teachers of children potentially requiring special needs.
• Attends staff meetings and trainings.
• Encourages and maintains good relationships with management, staff, parents, and children.
• Follows California State Department of Education regulations when performing all duties and responsibilities.
• Follows all Community Care Licensing Regulations and ensures classrooms are Title 5 and Title 22 compliant.
• May participate in parent meetings and conferences.
• May participate in community events.

• May provide input for the classroom newsletters.

Education

Possess a high school diploma or GED certificate. Within one year of employment, must successfully complete a minimum of six (6) units in Early Childhood Education from a recognized program. Failure to complete these units successfully will result in release from probationary status. Six (6) completed units in Early Childhood Education from a recognized program preferred.  

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of principles and practices of child development for licensed center based childcare; principles and processes for providing customer and personal services.

Ability to safely monitor, direct and participate in activities with the infants, toddlers, and children; stand, walk, squat, kneel, bend, twist, reach above shoulder level and below waist level, push and pull, lift up to 50 lbs.; implement current child development practices in accordance with State Department of Education and Community Care Licensing guidelines; assist and plan daily activity schedules that facilitate learning; communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally; work as part of a team in a culturally diverse environment; work with children in distress and/or are uncooperative; implement program goals; work effectively with others including parents, staff, management and consultants; understand and follow oral and written instructions; perform the physical duties of the job.

Bargaining Unit: SEIU
Annual Hours: 2080 (40 hours per week)
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt