Early Head Start Child Development Assistant (Paraprofessional)

Overall Purpose

The job of Child Development Assistant (Paraprofessional) is done for the purpose/s of providing a well-organized, smoothly functioning learning environment in which students can take full advantage of the instructional program and available resource materials. Paraprofessionals may be assigned to work in classrooms, offices, a media center, one on one, groups, or other environments.

Direct Supervisor

Director of Early Learning

Essential Functions

• Administers achievement and diagnostics tests assessments as directed by the teacher (assessment data, physical coordination exercises, physical hygiene, etc.) for the purpose of supporting teacher in the instructional process.
• Assists students (lesson assignments, art activities, playground activities, etc.) for the purpose of practicing and/or reinforcing learning concepts and assisting students in reaching academic goals, grade level standards, and appropriate social skills as directed by the teacher.
• Implements activities assigned by the teacher (independent study, enrichment work, remedial work set up, etc.) for the purpose of presenting and/or reinforcing learning concepts.
• Maintains classroom equipment, work area supplies, and learning aids (computers, drawing materials, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring availability of items and providing a safe learning environment.
• Monitors individual and/or groups of students in a variety of settings (classroom, playground, field trips, library, lunchroom, restrooms, bus loading/unloading, etc.) for the purpose of providing a safe and positive learning environment.
• Performs duties with other department workers as assigned (parent communication, sensory breaks for student, behavior management, bus pick-up, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.
• Reports observations and incidents relating to specific students (accidents, fights, inappropriate social behavior, violations of rules, safety conditions, etc.) for the purpose of communicating information to appropriate instructional and/or administrative personnel.
• Responds to emergency situations (injured student, fights, etc.) for the purpose of resolving immediate safety concerns and/or directing to appropriate personnel for resolution.
• Serves as a mandated reporter (classroom, home visits, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring safety of students and compliance with district, state, and federal requirements.
• Supports classroom teachers (storytelling, reading, drill work, special one-on-one work, lunchroom behavior management, playground, etc.) for the purpose of assisting them in the implementation of appropriate behavior, curriculum, and teaching methodologies.

Marginal Functions

• Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Competencies

• Skills-based Competencies

Required to perform multiple tasks with a potential need to upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: operating standard office equipment including pertinent software applications; preparing and maintaining accurate records; adhering to safety practices and procedures; administering first aid and/or prescribed medications; applying physical restraint practices; promoting activities and/or events.

• Knowledge-based Competencies

Required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percentages, and/or ratios; read a variety of manuals, write documents following prescribed formats, and/or present information to others; and understand multi-step written and oral instructions. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: concepts of grammar and punctuation; stages of child development and learning styles; age appropriate activities/behaviors; classroom instructional media and technology; cultural differences of student population; health standards and hazards; job-related codes/laws/rules/regulations/policies; methods of instruction and training; office equipment and technology; school safety and security practices.

• Ability-based Competencies

Required to schedule activities and/or meetings; gather and/or collate data; and use job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to work with others; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a diversity of individuals; work with a variety of data; and utilize job-related equipment. Problem solving is required to identify issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data may require independent interpretation; and problem solving with equipment is limited. Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: communicating with diverse groups; maintaining confidentiality; setting priorities; working as part of a team; adapting to changing work priorities; communicating with persons of diverse backgrounds; dealing with frequent interruptions; working extended hours; and working with frequent interruptions.

Requirements

Child Development Associate (CDA) or have equivalent coursework in Early Childhood Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, or Early Childhood Education preferred

Bilingual and biliterate in English and Spanish preferred

High school diploma or GED equivalent

At least 21 years’ of age (Individuals who have a minimum credit hours and hold an Associate Degree or higher teaching credential do not have to meet the minimum 21 years of age requirement)

Paraprofessional license OR have passed the paraprofessional assessment preferred

Physical Requirements

The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity.

Generally the job requires 20% sitting, 50% walking, and 30% standing.

Continuing Education/Training

Valid Paraprofessional license Child Development Associate

Clearances

Criminal Justice Fingerprint

Background Clearance

Sex Offender Registry Check

Child Abuse Registry Check

Fair Labor Standards Act

Non-Exempt