SOUTHEAST ALABAMA REGIONAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (SEARPDC)
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Teacher’s Aide (Auxiliary Teacher)
Department: Head Start / Early Head Start (HS/EHS)
Grade: Not listed
FLSA: Not listed
Safety Sensitive Job: Yes
Security Sensitive Job: No
Job Description Prepared: November 2021
Note: Statements in this description reflect general duties and responsibilities and are not to be interpreted as all-inclusive. The employee may be assigned other duties not specifically listed.
Relationships
Reports to: Center Director; Pre-K Program Director
Subordinate Staff: None
Internal Contacts: All SEARPDC Departments
External Contacts: Head Start and Early Head Start; Alabama DHR; Local Education Agencies (LEAs); General Public
Job Summary
Under the supervision of the Center Director, the Teacher’s Aide performs a range of tasks associated with effective delivery of center educational services aligned with the Head Start and Early Head Start Learning Framework. Duties include assisting with lesson plans, classroom preparation, student supervision, health checks, discipline, recordkeeping, cleaning, parent communication, and inventory. This position is safety-sensitive and requires a pre-employment background check and random drug screenings.
Essential Functions
Assisting Teachers
- Prepares lesson plans, file folders, and daily meal counts
- Supervises students to ensure a safe and healthy environment
- Conducts and documents student health checks
- Interacts and communicates with students
- Prepares meals (delivered to center)
- Observes and evaluates social development
- Prepares and maintains student records
- Integrates Early Head Start components into classroom functions
- Inputs student information into databases
- Communicates with student parents
Classroom Management
- Prepares classroom before arrival
- Cleans classroom
- Assists in monitoring classroom inventory
- Assists in enforcing discipline according to policy
Non-Essential Functions
- Performs other job-related duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Can be acquired on the job)
- *Knowledge of early childhood education and child development methods
- *Familiarity with SEARPDC, DHR, and Head Start guidelines
- *Knowledge of safety rules and First Aid/CPR procedures
- Strong communication (verbal/written), reading, and math skills
- Proficiency in computer use and office software
- Ability to document, assess, and interact with children
- Professionalism, patience, and organizational skills
- Ability to multitask, prioritize, and remain calm in dynamic situations
- Ability to drive
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED (post-secondary education in child development preferred)
- CDA certificate or ability to obtain within two (2) years of employment
- CPR and First Aid certifications required
- Valid driver’s license and insurability
- Availability for non-standard hours or overtime
- Ability to pass background check and drug screen
Physical Demands
The role requires standing, walking, bending, stooping, lifting moderate weight, and extended periods of movement in the classroom. Above-average agility and dexterity may be required.
Work Environment
Work occurs in classrooms and similar environments where normal safety precautions apply. The setting is clean, well-lit, and ventilated.
