VPK Teacher Assistant - Morgan Woods

Reporting to the Lead VPK Teacher and the Operations Director, the VPK Assistant Teacher supports the implementation of developmentally appropriate instruction to prepare children for kindergarten. This role emphasizes fostering emergent literacy, language development, and foundational math skills through engaging and interactive learning experiences. The Assistant Teacher collaborates with the Lead Teacher to create a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment, assists in curriculum implementation, and helps with classroom management. Additionally, this role includes supporting children’s individual learning needs, maintaining program compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, and engaging with families to enhance student success.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supports the Lead VPK Teacher in planning and conducting developmentally appropriate daily lessons and activities, assisting in guiding children's behavior and learning through active engagement and curriculum implementation.
• Helps maintain a safe, clean, and inclusive classroom environment conducive to optimal growth and development.
• Ensures children are properly supervised during activities, handwashing, and toileting while following all emergency policies and procedures.
• Adheres to policies related to boundaries with children and families, ensuring a professional and safe learning environment.
• Follows procedures for managing high-risk activities, supervising children appropriately, and ensuring their well-being at all times.
• Reports any suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations, following mandated abuse reporting requirements.
• Assists in conducting developmental assessments and maintaining accurate records for licensing and funding requirements.
• Observes and documents each child’s health upon arrival and throughout the day, reporting concerns as needed.
• Greets each child and parent upon arrival, fostering positive relationships and effectively communicating with families.
• Participates in parent conferences at least twice per year to support discussions on child progress and address concerns.
• Assists in ensuring the program meets all local, state, and federal regulations, contributing to quality improvement efforts.
• Attends staff meetings, training sessions, and YMCA special events, engaging in professional development opportunities.
• Completes required abuse risk management training and follows all safety and child protection policies.
• Helps manage classroom supplies and materials, ensuring they are available and well-maintained.
• Supports the overall mission of the YMCA and the success of the program by performing additional responsibilities as needed.