Classroom Assistant (ELC)

The Classroom Assistant provides flexible support across classrooms in the childcare center. This position assists teachers with classroom coverage, breaks, and transitions, while helping to maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children. The Classroom Assistant works under the direction of the Lead Teacher and Center Manager and serves as an extra set of hands where needed throughout the day.

Specific Duties of the Job

1. Classroom Support
   1. Assists teachers in supervising and engaging children during classroom activities, outdoor play, mealtimes, and rest periods.
   2. Provides coverage during teacher breaks, planning time, or staff absences.
   3. Helps maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment.
2. Child Care & Supervision
   1. Ensures the health, safety, and well-being of children in care.
   2. Helps maintain required staff-to-child ratios in classrooms when providing coverage.
   3. Assists children with daily routines including meals, hygiene, and transitions.
3. Operational Support
   1. Assists with preparing classroom materials and supplies.
   2. Supports cleaning and sanitizing toys, equipment, and common areas.
   3. Provides additional help in classrooms during busy times of day.
4. Family Engagement
   1. Greets families and children warmly and respectfully.
   2. Refers family questions or concerns to the Lead Teacher or Center Manager.
5. Professionalism & Training
   1. Completes all required DHS orientation and training within mandated timeframes.
   2. Maintains current CPR/First Aid certification and other required training (e.g., safe sleep if assigned to infant classrooms).
   3. Participates in professional development, team meetings, and staff training sessions.
   4. Maintains confidentiality of child, family, and staff information.
6. Other Duties
   1. Provides support in any classroom or program area as assigned by the Center Manager.
   2. Performs other duties as assigned to support smooth center operations.

Education and Experience Qualifications

• Required: High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred: CDA, AA, or coursework in Early Childhood Education.
• Experience working with young children preferred but not required.