Teacher Assistant Substitute - Head Start

Maryland Rural Development Corporation•Cecilton, MD

About The Position

This position serves in an as-needed substitute capacity for Head Start Centers located in Cecilton, MD and Elkton, MD. The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non-profit organization that provides services in response to the needs of rural, low-income households and communities. MRDC serves as Caroline, Cecil, Harford and Kent Counties’ official Community Action Agency. The Head Start Teacher Assistant supports the Head Start Teacher in creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children. This role involves assisting with classroom instruction, behavior management, and daily activities to promote school readiness and social-emotional development. The Teacher Assistant also helps maintain a clean and organized classroom and supports strong family engagement. The Head Start Teacher Assistant will assure that MRDC philosophies and priorities are met.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required with a CDA (Child Development Associate) credential.
or an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or child development.
Previous experience working with preschool-aged children, preferably in an early childhood education setting
Passion for working with young children and supporting their growth
Cultural competency and the ability to work with diverse families
Ability to follow instructions and adapt to classroom needs
Ability to work independently and within a team environment
Effective written and oral communication experience
Relationship building experience
Valid driver’s license and ability to drive to various MRDC locations throughout the sate
Demonstrated success in accomplishing tasks as outlined above
Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting
Must pass all Maryland licensing requirements to include medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening

Responsibilities

Assist the Head Start Teacher in planning and implementing lesson plans that align with Head Start guidelines
Engage with children in developmentally appropriate activities, including play-based learning, reading, and hands-on experiences
Help observe and assess children's development and provide input for individualized learning plans
Encourage and model positive social-emotional behaviors and problem-solving skills
Supervise children to ensure a safe and nurturing environment
Assist with classroom organization, including setting up materials and maintaining a clean learning space
Support children during daily routines such as meals, naptime, and transitions.
Follow Head Start health and safety policies, including proper hygiene and sanitation procedures
Develop positive relationships with families and communicate regularly about children's progress.
Encourage parental involvement in classroom activities and Head Start events.
Assist in preparing materials for parent meetings and conferences
Work collaboratively with the teacher, other staff members, and program administrators.
Attend training sessions, workshops, and meetings as required by the Head Start program
Assure that files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained
Thinks, concentrates, and positively interacts with others
Comes to work promptly every day
Works under stress and meets all deadlines
Performs related work as required or assigned.