Preschool Teacher Assistant

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About University of Saint Joseph:

This position is located at the School for Young Children at the University of Saint Joseph. The School for Young Children provides a quality preschool experience for young children between the ages of 3 and 5. The School serves children and families in West Hartford and other neighboring communities. The School also functions as an exemplary demonstration teaching model for University of Saint Joseph students and other early childhood educators. Since 1985, The School has been accredited through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). More information about the School for Young Children can be found at https://www.schoolforyoungchildren.org

Job Description:

This role assists the teacher in the classroom with all the aspects of the routines.

• Collaborates with the teacher to design and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum as guided by SYC's curriculum document, the CT ELDS, and NAEYC's accreditation standards. This includes helping to set up the classroom and maintaining necessary educational materials to attract and keep children's interests.

• Supports the teacher in modifying curriculum and lesson plans as needed to support the learning environment and to guide short & long term learning goals for children.

• Shares assessment observations and CT DOTS documentation with the teacher. Assists in gathering assessment documentation such as narratives, work samples, and photos. Supports the teacher during the family-teacher conferences.

• Supports SYC in maintaining NAEYC accreditation status by participating in various activities during re-accreditation cycles. Throughout each year, supports the teacher in maintaining the classroom portfolio. The portfolio is reviewed at least once per month to assess sections in need of updating.

• Welcomes families into the program on a daily basis. Supports the teacher in communicating with families about children's activities and progress. Supports a welcoming environment for families by attending school family events such as picnics and fundraiser.

• Supports college student's professional development through modeling and supportive interactions.

• Acts as a teacher in the teacher's absence.

• Continues to grow professionally by attending staff meetings, workshops, courses, and other sources of professional development (reading, networking etc.)

• Follows school policies and procedures as outlined in the USJ and SYC handbooks. Submits paperwork on time such as time sheets, surveys and other documents as needed. Monitors all school communications through the USJ email account and alert systems.

• Handles customer needs quickly, efficiently, enthusiastically, and courteously.

• Understands the basis of the institution is customer service.

• Incumbent defers decisions to the Teacher and/or Director or Assistant Director.

• Requirements:

Education & Experience

• Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

• 2-3 years working in an early childhood education program

• Experience in a model laboratory school preferred

• Other Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to work in an active school environment

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with fellow teachers

• Positive organizational, interpersonal, and customer service skills

• Ability to work in a fast paced, customer service environment with patience, flexibility and attention to detail

• Demonstrated computer literacy skills

• Demonstrated ability to recognize and appropriately handle matters of a confidential nature

• Professional, courteous demeanor and appearance; ability to work professionally with students, faculty, staff and administration and represent the College professionally to the public

• Demonstrated ability to support a community of diverse perspectives and cultures in an inclusive environment.

• Commitment to the mission of the University of Saint Joseph.

• Physical ability to perform essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Additional Information:

Pay Rates: The anticipated starting rates for this position are as follows based on the highest degree achieved:

• 2 years/Associate Degree: $17.00/hr

• Bachelor's Degree: $18.00/hr

• Master's Degree: $19.00/hr

• Benefits:

• 403(b) with employer match

• Medical/Dental/Vision insurance

• Life insurance

• Paid time off & 10 paid holidays

• Parental leave

• Tuition Waiver (include spouse & dependent waivers)

• Long-Term Disability insurance

• Employee assistance program

• Flexible spending account

• Health savings account

• 529 CHET savings plan

• NON-DISCRIMINATION & TITLE IX INFORMATION

ACCOMMODATIONS FOR APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES INFORMATION

The University of Saint Joseph believes it must play an active role in creating a community of employees that is diverse, inclusive and equitable. Our work benefits greatly from the contributions of people of color, people from different socioeconomic backgrounds, women, LGBTQ+ people, and individuals with disabilities. Hence, we strongly encourage applications from people with these identities or who are members of other marginalized communities.

Application Instructions:

Persons interested in the above position should apply online. Please submit:

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae

• Cover letter with salary requirements

• You may add additional files/documents after uploading your resume/CV; you will be directed to the upload page after you complete your contact information.

The University of Saint Joseph is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.