Head Start Classroom Assistant/Bus Driver

Position: Classroom Assistant/Bus Driver

Supervisor: Head Start Teacher

Classification: Level I, Non-Exempt

Overview

The Classroom Assistant / Bus Driver is responsible for assisting in the classroom in all areas designated by the teacher, with a focus on health and nutrition, while also providing safe and timely transportation of Head Start children and volunteers. The position maintains compliance with Head Start, DCFS, USDA, and transportation requirements.

Essential Job Functions

• Plan and implement weekly health and nutrition lessons and monthly cooking experiences.
• Complete bus monitor responsibilities and provide safe transportation services.
• Perform pre-trip inspections, maintain a clean and safe bus, schedule maintenance, and ensure inspection compliance.
• Develop and maintain bus routes and monitor weather/road conditions.
• Conduct emergency bus evacuation drills and complete transportation paperwork.
• Prepare meals and snacks according to Head Start and USDA requirements.
• Interact with children using developmentally appropriate Conscious Discipline techniques.
• Assist with screenings, assessments, anecdotal records, and health documentation.
• Maintain child health files and monitor health requirements.
• Assist in the classroom under teacher guidance and support building operations as assigned.
• Support School Readiness, PFCE, recruitment, and parent involvement activities.
• Maintain confidentiality and attend all required trainings and meetings.
• Perform job duties as per timeline.
• Perform any other duties needed to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and abide by our organization’s values.

Education and Experience

• Must meet DCFS requirements for Early Childhood Assistants (Section 407.100 &407.150). CDA preferred.
• Successfully complete fingerprint and background check as required by 89 Ill. Adm. Code 385, Background Checks (Section 407.110)
• High School diploma or equivalent certificate (GED), some college hours in early childhood education and/or experience in a preschool or day care preferred.
• Must maintain an Illinois CDL and School Bus Permit and be at least 21 years old.
• Must complete CPR, First Aid, Food Protection Manager Certification, Mandated Reporter, and any other certification deemed necessary for the site's operation.
• Must be physically able to lift 50 pounds and assist children as needed.
• Valid vehicle insurance is required.

Benefits

• Major Medical Plan. Community Action will pay a percentage of a monthly medical premium.
• Employee Term Life Insurance up to $30,000 depending on age, spousal coverage (up to age 70) for $10,000 and/or child coverage (up to age 26) for $10,000 per child.
• Dental and Vision Insurance Plan (Employer paid for the employee, employees can choose to add dependents at their own expense.)
• 403-B Retirement plan (CAPCIL will match up to 3%)
• Paid Time Off/PTO (6.5 days at time of hire, an additional 6.5 days after the 90-day probationary period, prorated based on hire date and increases with continued employment)
• Sick Leave (accrues at the rate of 4 hours per pay period for Full-Time and 2 hours per pay period for Part Time)
• 18 Paid Holidays (Including your birthday)

Key Performance Indicators

Outcome

Performance Indicator

Measure and Tool

What does Good Look Like?

Ensure we meet all Health Requirements for both Head Start and DCFS

Maintain up-to-date health requirements and screenings in both the individual child file and entered in the data tracking system.

Client database Health Management Report

Twice Annual File Checks

Health Tracking Form

95% of all required health events.

Transportation Safety

Maintain CDL, permits, maintenance and inspections

CDL records, inspections, maintenance logs

100% compliance

Ensure full enrollment

Actively recruit in assigned area

Recruitment

sign-in/signup sheets

Participates in 50% of planned recruitment activities.

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Signature of Staff Member Date

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Signature of Human Resources Director Date