Early Childhood Assistant Teacher (Temporary)

Job Title: Early Childhood Assistant TeacherReports to: Director of Breakthrough BeginnersFLSA Code: Part time (hourly), Non-exemptHours: Up to 25-hours/week; weekends and evening hoursProgram Area: Breakthrough Youth Network (BYN)Location: FamilyPlex, 3219 W. Carroll, Chicago, IL 60624BREAKTHROUGH BEGINNERS MISSIONBreakthrough Beginners provides high quality early childhood education by partnering with families to promote the holistic development of children in East Garfield Park.Position SummaryThe Assistant Teacher works in collaboration with the Lead Teacher, Director and staff to support families and foster the holistic development of children ages 2-5. They will contribute to the positive development of Breakthrough culture by working to develop relationships with families, children, staff and guests through kind, courteous, and meaningful interactions.Essential Responsibilities/FunctionsAssist in establishing and maintaining an environment for children which is clean, safe, stimulating and appropriate for each child’s developmental level.Promote healthy eating practices through participating in family style meals and planning and implementing nutritional activities.Work collaboratively with center staff to meet and maintain licensing requirements.Assume the role of leadership in absence of the teacher.Interact with children in accordance with developmentally appropriate practices as established by NAEYC guidelines.Manage the classroom through positive redirection, problem solving, setting appropriate limits, and active listening.Support the Lead Teacher in development and implementation of daily, weekly, and monthly lesson plans and assist with implementation.Communicate the parent’s questions or concerns to the Lead Teacher or Director.Communicate your concerns about a child’s development to the Lead Teacher or Director.Promote and support a welcoming environment by welcoming each child and family at arrival and departure.Maintain the daily schedule of the room.Assist in observation and documentation of individual progress through anecdotal notes, development checklist, portfolio assessments, and other screenings.Attend staff meetings, parent meetings, and other mandatory professional development meetings.Keep open communication with staff and co-workers.Maintain confidentiality regarding staff, families, and children at all times.Work collaboratively with staff to adhere to all guidelines provided by partner agencies included but not limited to Easterseals, DFSS, and DCFSAssist with documentation into Teaching Strategies GoldPerform other duties as assignedDemonstrated ValuesIndependently follows agency policy and proceduresFollows through with commitments including meeting established timelinesIdentifies and resolves difficult issuesProject a professional image to all internal and external customers ensuring proper grooming, dress code and hygienePromote customer care through all actions and behaviorsA passion for the mission of BreakthroughQualificationsMust have achieved 60 semester hours of credits from an accredited college or university with 6 semester hours in courses related directly to childcare and/or child development from birth to age six; OR1 year experience in a licensed childcare center and 30 semester hours of credits from an accredited college or university with 6 semester hours in courses related directly to childcare and or child development, from birth to age six.Knowledge, Skills, & AbilitiesMust have some classroom experience. Knowledge of urban issues regarding youth, children and familiesMust be reliable and demonstrate initiative and follow-through capabilities. Must be physically able to perform the job of a teacher of young children. Must have a warm, supportive attitude toward children. Must be flexible in receiving assignments or adapting to changes in the program. Demonstrates willingness to consistently improve work performance through their relationship and guidance from the supervisor.Good interpersonal, oral, and written communication skillsAbility to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and problem-solving skillsAbility to demonstrate initiative and follow through and be comfortable working in a changing environment.Flexibility and team-orientedMust demonstrate initiative and follow through, and be comfortable working in a dynamic environmentMust possess an accurate and informed understanding of cultural and urban realities, especially as related to youth, poverty, and community developmentClear Criminal Records Background CheckProof of Medical Exam and Negative TB testUpon hire, must become CPR and First Aid certified, complete the Child Abuse Recognition and Prevention as mandated by DCFS, and begin the credential process through Illinois Gateways to Opportunity. SUPERVISIONDoes not supervise any employeesDirection received from the Director of Breakthrough BeginnersPhysical Requirements And Working ConditionsWork EnvironmentWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee will work in a multi-purpose facility and/or outdoors and thus will be exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be high depending on the activities in the facility.Physical DemandsWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk and/or sit; use hands and fingers to feel objects, tools or controls, reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; regularly talk or hear. The employee must be able to bend, stoop, pull, lift as well as have overhead extension of arms. Must be able to stand for long periods of time; be able to lift, carry or move at least 50 pounds. Must adhere to proper handling and lifting techniques. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functionsEquipment UsedThe employee will generally use general office equipment including but not limited to telephone, computer, calculator, copier, overhead projector, paper shredder, paper cutter, and filing systems.Safety RequirementsPrior to the first day of work, must complete a criminal background and sex offender clearance.BenefitsSick leave - Part-time employees in this position are eligible for 1 hour of sick pay for every 35 hours worked in a pay period. This leave can be used for medical and safety reasons.Paid leave - Part-time employees in this position are eligible for 1 hour of paid pay for every 35 hours worked in a pay period. This leave can be used for any reason.CompensationThe actual salary within the range is determined by many factors including but not limited to skills, experience, education and internal equity.$18.00-$19.00/hrBreakthrough is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, or any other non-merit factors. If a reasonable accommodation is needed for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact us via the telephone number listed above. The decision to grant reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis.