Head Start Mentor Classroom Teacher Assistant

Duties and Responsibilities:


* Partner with the Mentor Teacher to implement educational programming within the
program philosophy and under all Office of Head Start Performance Standards in
addition to OCDEL requirements for early childhood accreditation and licensing
requirements to support the developmental needs of each child


* Help suervise children during all activities, including indoor and outdoor play, meals,
and rest time, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.


* Assist teacher assistants temporarily assigned to the Demonstration Classroom in
navigating the position of a Head Start or Pre-K Counts teacher assistant.


* Collaborate with Preschool Early Intervention program staff to model inclusive practices
to assigned teaching assistant staff.


* Provide information about OHS, OCDEL, and AIU policies, procedures, and
expectations.


* Share expertise, resources, and effective support strategies to ensure operational
success of the classroom.


* Observe mentees' classroom support and provide constructive feedback.


* Offer guidance on how to partner with the teacher to create a warm, inclusive, and
culturally responsive classroom environment.


* Engage in reflective conversations with mentees about their classroom experiences.


* Provide constructive feedback on teaching support performance.


* Encourage mentees to reflect on their own practice and set goals for improvement.


* Foster a positive and collaborative professional environment.


* Keep records of onboarding, retraining, upskilling and mentoring activities, including
observations, feedback, and goals.


* Encourage a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.

Qualifications - External


* Minimum of an Associate's degree or CDA


* Minimum of 5 years of early childhood education classroom experience


* Knowledge and skills in working with Preschool Early Intervention and serving children with Individualized Education Plans


* Demonstrated patience, empathy, and sensitivity in working with children and families facing various challenges and circumstances.


* Proven ability to work cooperatively and effectively with colleagues


* Demonstrated leadership qualities and strong interpersonal skills


* Models continual professional improvement with evidence of growth


* Basic computer and software skills to support instruction


* Critical thinking and problem solving skills


* Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job


* Ability to promote and follow AIU policies, Head Start Performance Standards, and OCDEL requirements


* Ability to communicate, interact and work effectively and cooperatively with all people, including those from diverse ethnic and educational backgrounds


* Willingness to contribute to cultural diversity for educational enrichment

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