Floating Teacher

Description

Self Help Inc. is currently looking for a Head Start Floating Teacher to join our team.

Agency Profile

Self Help, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Action Agency (CAA) created to help families and individuals stabilize and secure their lives through education, strategic assistance, and building opportunities in their communities. We provide a range of services for families and households across Southeastern Massachusetts.

Job Summary

The Head Start Floating Teacher plays a vital role in ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality early childhood education services within our Head Start program. This position provides flexible support to classroom teams by stepping in to cover teacher absences, provide additional assistance during peak times, and support various classroom activities. The Floating Teacher must be adaptable, resourceful, and possess a strong understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practices. They will work collaboratively with teaching staff to maintain a positive, safe, and stimulating learning environment that promotes the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of young children

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Classroom Coverage: Provide coverage for classroom teachers during absences (e.g., illness, vacation, training), ensuring continuity of educational services and adherence to Head Start Performance Standards and program policies
• Instructional Support: Assist classroom teachers with the implementation of curriculum, lesson plans, and activities, both indoors and outdoors
• Child Engagement: Actively engage with children in individual and group activities, fostering their exploration, learning, and social interactions
• Supervision and Safety: Maintain a safe and healthy learning environment by actively supervising children at all times, adhering to safety protocols, and reporting any concerns
• Individualization: Support the implementation of individualized learning plans for children with diverse needs, working collaboratively with the classroom team and support staff
• Classroom Management: Support positive classroom management techniques and help children develop self-regulation skills
• Collaboration and Communication: Communicate effectively and professionally with classroom teachers, other program staff, and parents as needed
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Demonstrate flexibility in adapting to different classroom environments, age groups, and teaching styles on short notice
• Material Preparation: Assist in preparing and organizing classroom materials and supplies
• Professional Development: Participate in required trainings and professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills in early childhood education
• Compliance: Adhere to all Head Start Performance Standards, state licensing regulations, and program policies and procedures

Other Requirements

• Must pass a criminal background check and other required clearances
• Must have or be willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certification
• Must meet the physical requirements of the position, including the ability to lift and carry young children, bend, stoop, and actively engage with children 
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation is required

Schedule

• Monday-Friday
• Hourly Rate: $19 per hour

Knowledge, Skills and abilities

• Strong understanding of child development principles and developmentally appropriate practices
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and regulations is a plus
• Ability to implement curriculum and adapt activities to meet the diverse needs of children
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Basic computer skills
• Patient, flexible, and adaptable
• Sensitivity to the needs of low-income families and diverse populations

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or be enrolled in a CDA program to be completed within 2 years OR be enrolled in a program leading to an Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE).
• Experience working with preschool-aged children in a group setting is required. Head Start experience is highly desirable

Self Help Inc offers a comprehensive employee benefits package:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• LTD
• FSA
• 403B
• Vacation Time
• Optional Time
• Sick Time
• Holidays
• Disability Benefits
• Life Insurance
• Direct Deposit

 Self Help, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended, and should not be construed to be, an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. It is intended, however, to be an accurate reflection of those principal job elements essential for making decisions related to job performance, employee development and compensation. As such, the incumbent may perform other duties and responsibilities as required. Its contents imply no contractual obligation and may be changed by the agency at any time.