Teacher Assistant

Job Title Assistant Teacher Reports to Director of Early Childhood Date Generated July 2024 Commonpoint is a non-profit, multi service agency with a flagship site in Forest Hills and 33 additional sites throughout the community that provides a diverse array of programs and services to over 35,000. Our mission is to sustain and enhance the quality of family and individual life for all members of our community, regardless of religion, ethnic or cultural background, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual preference, age, or disability, within a pervasive and inclusive environment that facilitates individual growth, meets individual needs and builds community. We accomplish this mission through a broad range of social, educational, and recreational services that reach community members of all ages and backgrounds DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES An individual hired as an Assistant Teacher will report directly to the Director of the Early Childhood Center at Commonpoint. This position supports the curriculum, classroom environment, and classroom management as determined by the Head Teacher and Director. Early Childhood Professionals will support children ages 2-5 working as part of a teaching team led by the Head Teacher. The classroom serves up to 18 children. This is a full time position and the successful applicant will work a maximum of 37.5 hours between the hours of 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. QUALIFICATIONS Must be over age 18 and have High School degree Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred or a Minimum two (2) years of experience in a classroom setting working with preschool children (2-5 years of age) Demonstrated capacity in assisting with planning appropriate Early Childhood classroom activities, observing children’s behaviors, and maintaining educational records Minimally must have a basic knowledge of Early Childhood development and curricula. Self-motivated, ability to multi-task and work efficiently and effectively under deadlines Elemental knowledge of federal, state, and local rules and regulations which govern childcare. (Article 47 standards) preferred Knowledge of child development including typical and atypical language, cognitive, motor, social, and self-help skills required Experience working with groups and/or families from diverse cultural, linguistic, economic, and ethnic backgrounds Desire to work with a diverse population of children and families (including, but not limited to families and children in transitional housing, first generation speakers of languages other than English, and those who may have experienced a history of trauma) Bilingual (English/Spanish or English/Mandarin or Cantonese) a plus RESPONSIBILITIES Collaborate with the Group Teacher to provide students with an age-appropriate, safe, healthy environment that will help them to develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally Work with the Group Teacher to ensure parent involvement and/or awareness in program planning through regular, open communication (i.e. parent meetings and events, parent newsletters, and parent conferences, etc.) Help the Group Teacher with ensuring records on children and families are current, complete, and kept confidential Exhibit knowledge of and sensitivity to the educational and socio-economic needs of the children and families served in the program and display a nurturing character that enables the building of a respectful, trusting and loving relationship with the children and families served Support the Group Teacher in educating and supervising an assigned group of children at all times Ability to be responsible for the completion of assigned tasks and projects Maintain an open, frequent dialog with the Group Teacher, and Education Director regarding all things pertaining to the Early Childhood classroom, students, parents, etc. Assist in maintaining a clean, safe facility for children and parents Display ethical and professional conduct that enables the building of a respectful, trusting and collaborative relationship with co-workers, families and supervisors. Willingness to comply with the established agency performance standards (including, but not limited to productivity/personal responsibility, embracing a team player orientation, and maintaining a professional demeanor, etc.) Participate in related training opportunities as they become available Model professional, appropriate behavior at all times Additional duties as required or assigned EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND REQUIRED COMPETENCIES High School Diploma Required Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education Preferred New York State Certified Teacher’s Assistant Credential desired Current CPR/First Aid Certification Preferred Able to bend to a child’s level and lift 40 pounds JOB DETAILS Schedule: Full time Location: Forest Hills, Queens Commonpoint is an equal opportunity employer/program