What are the responsibilities and job description for the Preschool Teacher Assistant position at Young Mens Christian Association of Trenton NJ?
Description
The Paraprofessional is responsible to assist the Lead Teacher in the supervision and education of a group of fifteen (15) children ages 3-5 years old. The Paraprofessional is to assist the Lead Teacher on the teaching team in her/his assigned classroom and implementing lesson plans which support the Center’s curriculum and philosophy.
To protect the health and well-being of our children, and to maintain the optimum classroom environment, the Teacher Assistant must be able to do the following:
1. Pass the state required physical exam and TB test
2. Lift a child weighing at least forty (40) pounds
3. Sit on the floor with children
4. Take short walks around the neighborhood
5. Chaperone on all field trips
6. Be able to mentally exercise reasonable judgment involving children’s safety in potentially dangerous situations
7. Independently care for the appropriate number of children within staff to child ratio for age group assigned.
8. The duties of a preschool teacher's assistant includes interacting with children, preparing snacks, teaching children about numbers, colors and shapes, helping them get dressed and changing their diapers when needed. They also evaluate students' social development and physical well-being. Preschool teacher's assistants should be prepared to take on the role of lead teacher when needed.
9. Ensure availability of adequate resources and incentives for the creation and maintenance of an innovative and highly successful preschool;
10. Provide a constructive environment in which the teacher can grow professionally;
11. Meet periodically with assigned head teacher and Supervisor on a schedule established by the Trenton Area YMCA Preschool to accomplish said reasonable steps.
Requirements
- The Teacher Assistant must possess 60 college credits or pass the Para Pro.
- The Teacher Assistant must be at least 18 years of age or older and meet all State of NJ Licensing requirements.
- They must have the ability to work well with parents and others staff members, have excellent oral and written skills.
- Teacher Assistants must maintain a neat and professional appearance at all times.
- They must be able to communicate professionally.
- They are also encouraged to pursue an Associate Degree in Early Childhood