Teacher Assistant

Job Title: Teacher Assistant

Department: Education and Language Services Department
Reports To: Lead Teacher
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Salary Grade: $19.26 - $25.04
Location: Coos Bay

This position is a covered position as defined in the Coquille Indian Tribe Chapter 185 Child Protection Ordinance.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and Criminal and Character Background Check.

Summary of Position

Under the direct supervision of the Head Start Lead Teacher, the Teacher Assistant supports the delivery of a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom experience for children enrolled in the Coquille Indian Tribe Head Start program. This role plays a key part in maintaining classroom operations, supporting educational activities, and fostering positive relationships with children and families.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain a physically and emotionally safe, orderly classroom environment; supervise children at all times
• Ensure compliance with Head Start health, safety, and performance standards
• Assist with classroom preparation, organization, and daily clean-up
• Participate actively in classroom routines, educational activities, and field trips
• Rotate and maintain educational materials and learning resources
• Model positive verbal and physical interactions with children and families
• Utilize developmentally appropriate teaching practices
• Support children’s skill development and positive self-concept
• Maintain consistent, professional communication with parents and families and document interactions as required
• Encourage and facilitate family involvement in classroom activities
• Model effective behavior management strategies
• Accept classroom responsibilities and duties as assigned or scheduled
• Maintain knowledge of Head Start health and safety policies and procedures
• Assist the Lead Teacher in identifying and implementing classroom safety improvements
• Sanitize classroom spaces in accordance with established health and safety requirements
• Support coordination and administration of volunteer and fatherhood programs
• Document and appropriately file accident, incident, and behavior reports
• Assist with individualization of student learning plans and documentation of student progress
• Support orientation and training of assigned staff and assist with planning and delegating work as directed
• Demonstrate a positive attitude toward Head Start philosophy and program goals
• Model behaviors that reflect respect for diversity and an inclusive learning environment
• Accept feedback, guidance, and supervision constructively
• Share pertinent information related to children and families with appropriate staff
• Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and other meetings
• Commit to ongoing professional development as outlined in individual training plans and Head Start Act requirements
• Work alternate hours or days as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to communicate orally and perform repetitive hand and wrist movements. Duties frequently involve walking, standing, sitting, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and lifting or carrying objects up to 50 pounds. Occasional climbing or balancing may be required.

Work is primarily performed in a classroom setting with occasional outdoor activities. Evening and weekend work may be required. The role may involve exposure to hazardous materials, excessive noise, infectious diseases, allergens, dust, fumes, and high-risk situations. Local travel is frequent, with occasional statewide or national travel.

The individual must be able to perform essential duties safely and efficiently, with or without reasonable accommodation, without posing a significant safety risk to themselves or others.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to remain calm and professional in stressful or emotional situations
• Ability to foster an inclusive, respectful environment that values diversity and individual differences
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills in emergency situations
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Strong organizational, time management, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines accurately
• Initiative and accountability in completing tasks and supporting classroom operations
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to Indian traditions, customs, and socioeconomic considerations
• Knowledge of child health, disabilities, and family services as related to Head Start Performance Standards
• Basic computer literacy, including the ability to use word processing, spreadsheets, and databases
• Ability to perform basic mathematical functions
• Foundational knowledge of early childhood education, child development, and family/social services
• Ability to support children with special needs, challenging behaviors, and diverse cultural backgrounds
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff across departments

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education required, or current enrollment in a program leading to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree
• Previous professional experience working with Head Start or preschool-aged children required
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire
• Food Handler’s Card, or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire
• Current, valid Oregon driver’s license in good standing with no insurability restrictions from the Tribe’s insurance carrier
• Willingness to serve as a mandatory reporter, including reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation as required by law