JOB FUNCTION:

To assist in planning and implementing learning experiences that advances the cognitive, physical, social and emotional development of children. Aid in encouraging the engagement of the families in Head Start.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum

• High School Diploma or GED
• Willing to attain Child Development Associate (CDA) credential within 18 months of initial employment date if applicable
• Valid driver's license and current vehicle insurance

Preferred

• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential
• Educational Coursework in Early Childhood Education leading to an associate degree
• Past Head Start staff or participant experience helpful
• Lived experience or a history working with individuals with low incomes

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITY SPECIFICATIONS:

• 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.

• WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work environment characteristics 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.

AGENCY EXPECTATIONS:

1) Embrace, advocate, and carry out the mission, vision and core values of the Agency and adhere to all Agency Policies and Procedures

2) Familiarize and work toward the achievement of Agency-wide strategic plan goals, strategies and measures.

3) Act as a role model within, as well as outside the Agency

4) Provide friendly, responsive service to the public, community organizations and to those we serve

5) With a respectful and positive attitude, work with low-income individuals and families with diverse backgrounds

6) Support, develop and maintain productive relationships required to carry out job activities

7) Demonstrate flexible and efficient time management

8) Maintain the security and confidentiality of all records and interpersonal interactions

9) Work effectively and cooperatively with community partners and co-workers

10) Participate in and/or lead Agency committees

11) Embody our commitment to embrace perspectives

HEAD START PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:

• Physical exam within 30-days, 3-year renewal
• First Aid, CPR certification
• Hepatitis B or documentation of refusal
• CARS training, 5-year renewal

ESSENTIAL FUCTIONS:

Prevention and Active Supervision

a) Supervise and monitor children at all times

b) Follow all health/safety policies and licensing rules

c) Assist in maintaining classroom documentation

d) In the absence of the Teacher/Family Advocate responsible for classroom management e.g, transportation arrangements, child medication, special diets, meal counts

Curriculum and Assessment

a) Assist in implementation of lesson plans

i) Meet the individuals needs of each child

ii) Assist in collecting on-going anecdotal notes

iii) Participate in classroom meetings offering ideas and suggestions

Family and Community Partnerships

a) Maintain a positive classroom climate that is welcoming to parents and community members

b) Assist with parent engagement activities

c) Assist with outreach and recruitment

d) Support external partnerships, including but not limited to Great Plains Food Bank (Kitchen Coalition), Early Intervention Services, and Dental Days

Agency and Division Support

a) Represent Agency in communities we serve

b) Align and build on efforts to achieve a shared vision and common goals in serving people

c) Assistant with Agency projects as requested

d) Attend and participate in agency, community and state meetings as requested

e) Participate in agency provided trainings and seek out additional training to enhance professional development

f) Assist with onboarding and training of Agency team members as requested

g) Compile and submit required documentation

h) Availability to work designated Agency hours for your Division and position

Commit to, embrace, and uphold the CAPLP Core Values

1) Raise the Bar:

We always strive for excellence and never settle for the status quo

Be your best self; Hold yourself and your team accountable; Always best practice

2) Be Brave:

We challenge ourselves to go further than before, endure obstacles and try new things

Think outside the box; Take risks; Say the hard things; Be part of the solution

3) Do the Right Thing

We have the strength of character to do the right thing even when it's not easy

Lead by example; Be mission-driven; Be professional and ethical, even when no one is looking

4) Care for Each Other:

We respect, trust and care for ourselves, our customers and our teammates

Be kind; Assume the best; Take time to build relationships; Celebrate success

5) Help People:

We help people to help themselves and each other, focusing on those we need us most

Show compassion; Embrace perspectives; Go the extra mile