POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Summer Learning Loss Prevention (SLLP) program Teacher Assistant is primarily responsible for assisting the SLLP program Teacher in the implementation and facilitation of the Four Blocks curriculum. The Teacher Assistant reports to the Site Director and assists in the supervision and in the literacy and social development of children ensuring a safe, enriching, and healthy learning environment.

OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Support teachers in instruction according to the 4 blocks model.
• Meet daily with the teacher to review activities and ensure continuity of classroom support strategies.
• Gather the appropriate books/resources for the literacy curriculum.
• Support the classroom according to the fidelity and quality requirements.
• Set up for and clean up after all classroom activities.
• Ensure 1:8 ratio is maintained throughout the literacy portion of the day.
• Proactively manage classroom behavior.
• Support the teacher in meeting the individual needs of students (e.g., inclusion/accommodations, English language learner strategies).
• Provide additional academic support, as needed.
• Build relationships with parents/caregivers.
• Assist the teacher in decorating the classroom space according to the weekly theme.
• Take care of school property (e.g., space, equipment, supplies) daily.
• Collaborate with enrichment leaders to ensure literacy instruction is aligned with enrichment activities.
• Assist with dismissal to ensure student safety
• Assist Teacher and Site Director in other duties as assigned
• Uphold and exemplify the YMCA’s Core Values and principles of Character Development.
• Attend training and staff meetings.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

• Engaging Community
• Inclusion
• Emotional Maturity

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of 16 years of age.
• Exceptional group management, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
• Experience in delivering instruction, creating or facilitating interactive and educational/artistic activities, youth development, physical activities, academic enrichment, and the arts
• Must possess speaking, listening and writing, skills appropriate for interacting with both children and adults
• Must have the flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of YMCA mission, purpose and goals, childcare policies and YMCA standards; ensures the program meets the highest standards of excellence

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to plan, lead and participate in activities.