Position: Head Start Teacher Assistant

Reports to: Director of Early Childhood Education

Compensation: $43,0000 to $45,000 Annually

Status: Full time

Location: Chicago, IL

For over a century, Northwestern Settlement has been a cornerstone in the West Town community, supporting families through education, social services, and the arts. Our Early Childhood Program is a vital part of that mission, fostering a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children during their most critical years of development. We are currently seeking a dedicated and passionate Head Start Teacher Assistant to join our team. This individual will support the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that support the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of children. The Head Start Teacher Assistant works collaboratively to assist with the development and implementation of core curriculum that follows the Head Start Program Performance Standards, NAEYC Standards, and that of our Community Partnership CPS. This opportunity is ideal for someone who has a passion for helping young children grow and thrive.

Key Duties/Responsibilities

• Assist with creating a inclusive and supportive classroom environment

• Support implementation of lesson plans aligned with Creative Curriculum System for Preschool

• Help monitor and document children’s progress through observations and assessments

• Participate in  parent-teacher conferences to support individualized child development plans

• Foster open communication with families and promote parent involvement

• Maintain a safe and clean learning environment in compliance with DCFS and Head Start regulations

• Participate in ongoing professional development, team meetings, and trainings

• In addition to the duties expressly provided above, the Head Start Teacher Assistant from time to time will perform other duties and functions as assigned by their direct supervisor.

Ideal Skills/Traits

• Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred

• Excellent oral and written communication, collaboration, and organizational skills 

• Ability to relate to our multicultural community

• Ability to accept guidance and supervision

• Excellent punctuality and attendance

• Skilled in data entry and database management

Education/Experience

• Associate Degree in Early Childhood Development, or related field that includes 15
  semester hours in Early Childhood Education

• Illinois Gateways ECE/ IT Credential Level 4

• American Red Cross First Aid/CPR Certification

• Complete all forms upon offer and acceptance as per DCFS, City of Chicago and Head Start
  licensing standards (including 3 letters of recommendation, Criminal Background Check,
  Fingerprinting and Childs Abuse and Neglect Background Check, etc…)

Compensation & Benefits:

Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. We offer a robust health benefits package. In addition, all staff members are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including a dedicated workspace, laptop, email, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.

Statement of Non-Discrimination:

Northwestern Settlement is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.

Qualifications