ABOUT US: The Des Plaines Park District, established in 1919, features more than 50 parks and facilities. As an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency, we service a culturally diverse and growing community with hundreds of affordable recreational and educational programs, classes, and events for kids, teens, adults, and families each season. "Enriching Lives Everyday" is our vision and our constant goal. 

JOB IDENTIFICATION

Job Title: Creative Corners Preschool Assistant, Preschool Prep

Grade: IV, Starting Salary Range: $17.00/hour

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Department: Recreation

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to: Preschool Prep Director/Lead Teacher, Recreation Supervisor

BASIC FUNCTION

Working Hours are Monday-Thursday 9:00a-12:00p, 3.0 hours daily, with an additional .75 hours per week of prep.

During busy times we do allow for additional prep periods as approved.

Last 2 weeks in August will be for room preparation and set up. School year 9 months runs from September-May. Last 2 weeks in May will be for room reorganization and end of the year clean up.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

1. Assisting the Preschool Prep Director/ Lead Teacher in supervision of program activities for all Preschool Prep Classes; including classroom preparation, clean up, behavior management, leading of activities, and overall means for a successful preschool classroom.
2. Ability to fluently speak/read English Language.
3. Understanding of emotional, physical, intellectual and social needs of children between ages 2-3 years.
4. Demonstrates knowledge of developmental learning progressions and the ability to assess children’s needs.
5. Helps maintain a clean and organized classroom, in which to provide a warm, safe environment for the children to learn and grow.
6. Provide a variety of activities and materials that are age appropriate and relevant to young children.
7. Use the appropriate and positive behavior management when necessary.
8. Cooperatively develop lesson plans based on the curriculum outline.
9. Keep up to date on preschool issues and trends and incorporate into the program on a regular basis through attendance at pertinent seminars, reading periodicals, etc.
10. Work cohesively with Lead Teacher and other preschool instructors.
11. Interact and form relationships with parents.
12. Willingness to work with bilingual parents and children.
13. Demonstrate respect for parents and students.
14. Possess a thorough knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education, classroom management techniques and appropriate guidance and discipline techniques.
15. Pleasant personality. Work record demonstrating team work, positive attitude, reliability, initiative, tact and productivity. 

OTHER DUTIES

1. Administer First Aid, when required
2. Adhere to all safety policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Manual and Crisis Manual.
3. Direct participants in the event of an emergency, such as fire, severe weather.
4. Communicate with Recreation Supervisor regarding any equipment needing repair or replacement.
5. Attend related trainings and meetings as requested.
6. Additional duties as assigned

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Associates' Degree preferred

Experience: Minimum of two years’ experience working in early childhood setting

Certifications: CPR and First Aid Certification, available through the Park District

COMPETENCIES

Mental Alertness Learns new tasks quickly.

Technical Skill Applies education, training and experience to complete job requirements.

Verbal Ability Communicates clearly. 

Composure Controls temper. Demonstrates an ability to concentrate on key job expectations.

Character Strength Is responsible and dependable. Completes assignments. Demonstrates personal values.

Emotional Maturity Works independently. Accepts authority. Informs the supervisor of problems when necessary.

Interpersonal Skills Demonstrates self confidence to try new methods or tasks. Demonstrates cooperation, courtesy and consideration when working with others.

Teamwork Understands role and makes appropriate contribution to the team. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Manual Dexterity: Work requires regular speed, accuracy and adeptness to operate a limited range of equipment.

Physical Effort: Work requires handling light and simple weight materials or equipment.

Working Conditions: Majority of time spent indoors. On occasion exposed to outdoor elements.

Hazards: Minimal exposure to hazards, will work with common household cleaners

PERKS & BENEFITS: PART TIME STAFF

• All recreational facilities at no charge during active employment, discounts for dependents
• A free individual outdoor pool pass to three aquatic facilities, or family pass at 50% discount
• A free annual or monthly fitness center and/or indoor aquatic center pass
• Rent meeting/party spaces at 50% discount
• No charge for general programs/pre-registration (some exclusions apply)
• Contractual classes/programs at a discounted rate
• All golf facilities at no charge including Golf Center Golf Course, Lake Park, and Mountain View Adventure Center

Des Plaines Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Des Plaines Park District ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of race, creed, gender, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability. If you need any special accommodations, please contact our HR Coordinator, Ellie Asa, at the Park District at 847-391-5099 or email at ellie.asa@dpparks.org so that we may make the necessary arrangements for you.