Headstart Preschool Assistant Teacher

Summary

Empower the next generation of learners. We are looking for an energetic and dedicated Assistant Teacher to join our Head Start team. In this role, you will support the Lead Teacher in preparing preschool-aged children (3–5 years old) for success in kindergarten and beyond. You will play a key part in delivering a high-quality program that meets Federal Head Start Performance Standards while fostering a love for learning.

The Impact You’ll Make

As an Assistant Teacher, you are a co-facilitator of discovery. You will help create a classroom environment that encourages curiosity, independence, and social-emotional growth. By building strong bonds with families and providing a safe, structured space for children, you help bridge the gap between home and school.

Duties

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Support & Instruction (60%)

• Instructional Assistance: Help implement a preschool curriculum that focuses on early literacy, math, science, and social skills.
• Small Group Leadership: Lead small group activities and "choice time" to encourage experimentation, problem-solving, and cooperation.
• Observation: Assist the Lead Teacher in documenting child progress and collecting anecdotal evidence to track "school readiness" goals.
• Positive Guidance: Model social skills and hygiene, helping children develop the self-help skills they need for the transition to elementary school.
• Health & Safety: Ensure the classroom is safe, organized, and sanitized, including prepping materials for daily lessons.

Safety (30%)

• Family Liaison: Facilitate the daily transition from home to center, greeting families and ensuring safe hand-offs to authorized adults.
• Emergency Readiness: Maintain readiness for emergency evacuations and follow all state and federal safety regulations.

Documentation & Growth (10%)

• Records Management: Support the Lead Teacher in maintaining accurate files, including attendance, screenings, and parent communication logs.
• Professional Development: Participate in ongoing training and workshops to maintain your CDA and stay current on ECE best practices.

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Required: High School Diploma/GED and current enrollment in a program to obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) or an Associate Degree in ECE.
• Credentialing: Must earn a Preschool CDA by December 2028 (if not already held).
• Experience: Experience in a preschool or licensed childcare setting is preferred.

Certifications & Compliance:

• Safety: Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification (required within 60 days).
• Clearance: Must clear a comprehensive background check and health screening.

Skills & Abilities:

• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff and diverse families.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to engage with active preschoolers, which includes sitting on the floor, kneeling, bending, and lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Classroom Management: Ability to redirect behavior positively and keep children engaged in learning activities.

Nice To Haves

Meets DCF Requirements: Introduction to Childcare Profession and Skills & Strategies

Has a WI registry

WI Registry Level 6 and Above 

Benefits

HEALTH INSURANCE

DENTAL INSURANCE

VISION

403B RETIREMENT

HSA

FLEXIBLE BENEFIT PROGRAM

ADDITIONAL LIFE INSURANCE

ACCIDENT INSURANCE

CRITICAL ILLNESS INSURANCE

SHORT-TERM DISABILITY

PAID TIME OFF PACKAGE

About Us

Family Forum, Inc. is a private, non-profit corporation that provides programs for families in Ashland, Bayfield, Douglas, Iron, and Price Counties of Wisconsin.  The corporation is made up of a Governing Board who manage the affairs of the corporation through the Executive Director.  The programs provided by Family Forum, Inc. are Head Start / Early Head Start.

Mission Statement

We are dedicated to preparing children and their families for success; through high quality programming, family support and wellness education, while fostering meaningful relationships.

Our Vision

Partnering with families and communities to build school readiness for all children through passionately committed relationships that connect families to goal oriented outcomes.