Head Start Teacher Assistant

 Location: 
 Organization: The Improvement Association
 Status: Full-Time

About The Improvement Association

The Improvement Association is dedicated to empowering families and strengthening communities through education, workforce development, and early childhood programs. Our Head Start program provides high-quality, comprehensive early learning experiences for children ages 3–5, fostering school readiness and lifelong success.

Position Summary

The Head Start Teacher Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in creating and maintaining a positive, engaging, and safe classroom environment. This position assists in implementing daily lesson plans, supporting individualized learning, and promoting children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. The Teacher Assistant plays a vital role in supporting family engagement and ensuring compliance with all Head Start performance standards and The Improvement Association’s policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities.
• Support classroom routines, transitions, and group activities that promote children’s learning and well-being.
• Supervise and ensure the safety of all children at all times, both indoors and outdoors.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment.
• Assist with documentation of attendance, meal counts, and child observations as required.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and staff members.
• Participate in professional development and ongoing training to enhance skills and meet Head Start requirements.
• Support the implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) as needed.

Qualifications

• Required: High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred: Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or enrollment in a CDA program.
• Coursework or degree in Early Childhood Education is highly desirable.
• Prior experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom or childcare setting.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
• Must meet all Head Start and state licensing requirements, including background checks and health screenings.

Work Environment

• Active classroom setting with children ages 3–5.
• Collaboration with a team of educators and family support staff.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay based on education and experience.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment focused on community impact.