Early Childhood Classroom Assistant

THE ORGANIZATION

Banyan Community is seeking people who support the mission of the organization to develop youth, strengthen families, and create community in the Phillips neighborhood. We have been a community anchor in the neighborhood for nearly twenty-five years. We work together as an inclusive, asset-based community that celebrates diversity and builds trusting relationships to realize our mission. Banyan is a values-based organization comprising a multicultural, multiracial, multi-faith community, and we invite all persons to join and contribute to our transformative work.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

The Classroom Assistant plays a vital role in supporting overall programming and providing a nurturing and stimulating environment for children and caregivers. This position involves assisting in the organization of the classroom, supervising children during activities, serving as a positive role model for parents, and contributing to the overall educational and emotional collaboration in the classroom.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assisting the Early Childhood Coordinator and Classroom Lead: Provide support in implementing and assessing developmentally appropriate activities and lessons for children and caregivers.
• Curriculum Implementation: Assist the Classroom Lead in implementing age-appropriate lesson plans and educational activities.
• Supervision and Safety: Help maintain a safe and secure environment, which fosters a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that both children and parents feel valued, supported, and safe.
• Classroom Setup: Assist with setting up the classroom environment, arranging furniture, preparing materials, and organizing learning areas to promote a conducive learning atmosphere.
• Behavior Management: Help manage children's behavior using positive reinforcement, redirection, and other appropriate techniques as guided by the coordinator. Foster a positive and respectful classroom atmosphere.
• Individualized Support: Provide individualized attention and support to children with special needs or specific challenges, as directed by the coordinator.
• Communication: Maintain open and effective communication with parents/caregivers, sharing information about their child's class activities, progress, and any concerns.
• Cleanliness and Organization: Assist in maintaining a clean and organized classroom environment. Help with cleaning, sanitizing, and storing classroom materials and equipment.
• Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, workshops, and team meetings as required to enhance your knowledge of early childhood education practices and improve your skills.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrate respect and sensitivity towards diverse cultures, backgrounds, and individual needs within the classroom.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborate with other classroom assistants, teachers, and support staff to ensure a cohesive and effective learning environment.
• Confidentiality: Create a climate of trust and safety, which includes the importance of privacy and confidentiality.
• Overall Support: Performs other duties of a comparable level or type as requested or required.

Qualifications:

• Passion for early childhood education.
• An ability to work effectively with children and parents.
• Able to communicate effectively and interact respectfully with diverse groups of people. Bilingual in Spanish preferred.
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
• Experience with racial equity, inclusion, and engagement with diverse community members.
• Able to lift and carry 20lbs, comfortable running or participating in physical activity as part of youth activities.
• Organized and detail oriented; able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Cultural competency and the ability to adapt teaching methods to accommodate various parenting styles amongst a variety of cultures.

Compensation: This is an hourly, part-time position. Approximately 9 hrs. per week (Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:30pm-6:30pm). Position may require occasional evening and/or weekend hours. Salary range $20-$21 per hour. Benefits include paid holidays and sick time.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $19.00 - $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 8 – 10 per week

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $20