Classroom Substitute – Rockbridge/Buena Vista

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CLASSIFICATION:    Non-Exempt

Every TAP employee shares in TAP’s responsibility to “Mobilize Community Resources” in support of TAP’s anti-poverty efforts.

 

DEFINITION AND PURPOSE:

Assists the classroom staff in planning and carrying out the educational program of Head Start.  Performs tasks as assigned by the teacher, in the absence of regular staff members, to provide high quality care for the children in their center.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

Supervised by:      Lead Teacher, Teacher, Center Supervisor, Teacher I or II

Supervises:           No One

Coordinates with: Center and Administrative Staff

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assists with implementation of the educational program for children.
  • Assists with arrival or departure of children (greeting and communicating with parents, etc).
  • Assists the staff with preparation and implementation of family style breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks, interacting with the children and modeling appropriate mealtime skills.
  • Assists in implementing classroom activities as defined in the lesson plan.
  • Demonstrates developmentally appropriate practices throughout the center in all interactions with children.
  • Observes and supervises children individually and as a group, and responds to the needs of the group and individual children in a timely and appropriate manner.
  • Assists classroom staff in creating an atmosphere in the center that is welcoming to parents and families by greeting parents in a friendly manner as they bring and pick up their children.
  • Assists with maintaining classroom environment in accordance with TAP Head Start policies and procedures and Virginia Minimum Standards for Licensed Child Care Programs.
  • Assists in setting up and cleaning the classrooms.
  • Keeps equipment and materials safe, clean, and in good condition at all times, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Assists in maintaining a classroom environment conducive to exploration and experimental learning with interest areas labeled, defined and accessible to children.
  • Follows the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct regarding appropriate interactions with staff and parents, including taking concerns to appropriate sources, refraining from gossiping or inappropriate interactions with colleagues and parents, and exhibiting professional behavior at all times.
  • Will refer to the classroom Substitute Directory as needed.
  • Follows centers rules and those implemented at hire for the entire agency.
  • Presents self professionally to colleagues, parents and community through appropriate dress, language and behavior.
  • Creates a positive work environment by demonstrating flexibility and willingness to perform other job-related duties as assigned, and by participating appropriately in program planning and decisions, and in implementation of those plans.
  • Adheres to all policies/procedures as outlined in the TAP Head Start Policies and Procedure Manual.
  • Adheres to NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct as adopted by TAP Head Start.
  • Performs other duties as assigned and required.

 

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Basic knowledge of developmental characteristics and needs of infant, toddler, and/or preschool children.
  • Some knowledge of appropriate activities and interactions with infant, toddler, and/or preschool children.
  • Ability to learn, understand and follow policies and procedures outlined in the TAP Head Start Policies and Procedures Manual and other written and oral directions from program staff and supervisors
  • Ability to read, write and communicate with staff, parents, and children in an appropriate and professional manner.

 

TRAINING, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma or G.E.D.
  • At least one year of experience working with infants, toddlers, and/or pre-school children.
  • At TAP, we focus on the Whole Family Approach.   Whole Family is a family led strategy to achieve set goals.  As an employee you may be required to attend Whole Family training and subject to data entry into the agency’s software as part of the Whole Family approach and serving clients

 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have a valid Virginia Operator’s license and reliable transportation.
  • TAP participates in the Virginia DMV Driver Alert Program.  Employees who operate a TAP vehicle or their personal vehicle to conduct TAP business may be subject to driver record monitoring through the Virginia DMV Driver Alert Program.
  • Must pass drug screening.  Some positions require positive complete background screening including: criminal, sex offender and child protective services.
  • Must be able to interact with children.
  • Attends a minimum of 21 training hours as required and provided by TAP Head Start.
  • Must be available to work a minimal of 25 hours, on an as needed basis.
  • Must be available to work any eight (8) hours shift during center operational hours of 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., including split shifts as needed.
  • Must have CPR, First Aid Certification, and MAT certification or be able to complete such certification within 6 months of employment.
  • Physical activity of this position – climbing; ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like; balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, use of fingers for – picking, pinching, and typing; grasping, feeling, hearing, talking, repetitive motion of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
  • Physical requirements of this position – medium work; exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Visual acuity requirements – must be able to determine the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned or to make general observations of facilities or structures.
  • Conditions subject to in this position – worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

 

This description provides information regarding the essential functions of the designated job, and general nature and level of work associated with the job.  It should not be interpreted to describe all the duties that may be required of such employees or be used to limit the nature and extent of assignments such an individual may be given.

We only hire individuals legally eligible for employment in the United States.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug Free Workplace

Bilingual Ability is a plus.

Special Needs Assistant – Roanoke

Posted on

CLASSIFICATION:    Non-Exempt

Every TAP employee shares in TAP’s responsibility to “Mobilize Community Resources” in support of TAP’s anti-poverty efforts.

 

DEFINITION AND PURPOSE:

The Special Needs Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the implementation of the educational program for children with disabilities, special needs, and/or mental/behavioral health issues in Early Head Start/Head Start settings. Working under the guidance of the Teacher, the Special Needs Assistant provides direct assistance and individualized support to children with diverse learning needs, ensuring their inclusion and participation in all aspects of the educational program.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

Supervised by:      Lead Teacher, Teacher, Center Supervisors, Disabilities Coordinator, Behavior Health Coordinator, Education Coordinators, Supervisor of E

Supervises:           No One

Coordinates with: EHS/HS Center and Administrative Staff

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assist the Teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) or individualized family service plans (IFSPs) for children with disabilities, special needs, and/or behavioral health concerns.
  • Provide one-on-one support and assistance to children with diverse learning needs, including personal care, mobility assistance and behavioral support.
  • Collaborate with the Teacher and other classroom staff to create a supportive inclusive learning environment for all children.
  • Support children’s social-emotional development by modeling positive behaviors, facilitating peer interactions, and implementing strategies to address challenging behaviors.
  • Adapt instructional materials and activities to meet the individual needs and abilities of children with disabilities or special needs, ensuring their full participation and engagement in the educational program.
  • Assist in the assessment and documentation of children’s progress and development, under the direction of the Teacher and Special Education staff.
  • Foster positive relationships with children and families, promoting open communication and partnership in the educational process.
  • Demonstrate skills in the CLASS Tool to promote a positive, engaging, responsive, respected, child-centered, and safe environment. By nurturing meaningful interactions, educators will support children’s holistic development.
  • Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information related to children and families, in accordance with program policies and regulations.
  • Assists with keeping equipment and materials safe, clean, and in good condition at all times, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Works to continue education by attending classes, meetings, workshops, and conferences related to Head Start and early childhood education, earning at least 21 training hours per program year as defined in the TAP Head Start training plan.

–     Attends center staff meetings monthly, or as needed.

–     Develops professional development goals with supervisor, annually.

–     Participates in classes, workshops, meetings, and conferences that move toward meeting professional development goals, as requested or assigned.

  • Assists the Lead Teacher in creating an atmosphere in the center that is welcoming to parents and families of all children.
  • Adheres to NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and the TAP Head Start Code of Conduct.
  • Performs other duties as assigned and required by the Supervisor.

 

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Basic understanding of child development, disabilities and special education principles.
  • Compassion, patience and empathy in working with children with diverse learning needs and abilities.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with colleagues and interact sensitively with children and families.
  • Ability to implement instructional strategies under the supervision of the Teacher and Special Education staff.
  • Flexibility and adaptability in responding to the individual needs and behaviors of children with disabilities or special needs.

TRAINING, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s Degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, or related field preferred.
  • Previous experience working with children with disabilities, special needs and/or behavioral health issues preferred.
  • Training in crisis intervention techniques may be required.
  • At TAP, we focus on the Whole Family Approach.   Whole Family is a family led strategy to achieve set goals.  As an employee you may be required to attend Whole Family training and subject to data entry into the agency’s software as part of the Whole Family approach and serving clients

 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have a valid Virginia Operator’s license and reliable transportation.
  • TAP participates in the Virginia DMV Driver Alert Program.  Employees who operate a TAP vehicle or their personal vehicle to conduct TAP business may be subject to driver record monitoring through the Virginia DMV Driver Alert Program.
  • Must pass drug screening.  Some positions require positive complete background screening including:  criminal, sex offender and child protective services.
  • Must be able to interact with children.
  • Must have CPR, First Aid Certification, and MAT certification or be able to complete such certification within 6 months of employment.
  • Must be available to work any eight (8) hour shift during center operational hours of 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Physical activity of this position – climbing; ascending and descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like; balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, use of fingers for – picking, pinching, and typing; grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, repetitive motion of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
  • Physical requirements of this position – medium work; exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Visual acuity requirements – must be able to determine the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned or to make general observations of facilities or structures.
  • Conditions worker subject to in this position – worker in not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.
  • Performs other duties as assigned and required by the Supervisor.

This description provides information regarding the essential functions of the designated job and general nature and level of work associated with the job.  It should not be interpreted to describe all the duties that may be required of such employees or be used to limit the nature and extent of assignments such an individual may be given.

 

We only hire individuals legally eligible for employment in the United States.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug Free Workplace

Bilingual Ability is a plus.

Behavioral Health Coordinator

Posted on

COMPONENT: Head Start
CLASSIFICATION:   Exempt
This position is contractual.

DEFINITION AND PURPOSE:

Responsible for the management functions in conjunction with the Supervisor of Education in making behavioral health services accessible to the EHS/HS children and families.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

Supervised by:      Day to day supervision is provided by Supervisor of Education

Supervises:            Special Needs Assistant with dual supervision with Supervisor of Education

Coordinates with: Early Head Start and Head Start Service Areas, Staff Community Agencies, Educational Institutions and Partners, Center Staff, Disabilities Coordinator, Transition Coordinator, Behavioral Health Consultants and Service Providers

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Coordinates opportunities for ongoing training and development of Early Head Start and Head Start staff, in conjunction with the Supervisor of Education.
    • Establishes and implements a structured approach to staff training and development.
    • Provides training opportunities that are designed to encourage building of relationships among staff and to assist in acquiring knowledge and skills needed to fulfill their job responsibilities, in accordance to Head Start Program Performance Standards.
  • Coordinates services for children and families with behavioral health concerns.
    • Provides reports describing identification of and intervention in family and staff concerns about a children, monthly.
    • Attends program staffing to provide consultation on identified children with behavioral health needs as scheduled.
    • Provides observations in the classroom to determine behavioral health issues or needs, records information and submits a copy to Supervisor of Education.
    • Documents information received and observations conducted while assessing and coordinating behavioral health services for families
    • Arranges screenings and assessments for children with behavioral health needs.
    • Ensures that all behavioral health information is filed in the child’s family development file.
    • Maintains strict confidentiality regarding all information pertaining to      behavioral health needs of the child and family.
    • Coordinates with family development specialist, lead teacher, and center supervisor to arrange conferences with parents when informed of concerns       regarding children, family members, and staff as needed.
    • Facilitates the flow of information between Early Head Start/Head Start and parents after referrals have been made.
  • Provides consultation for parents regarding specialized assistance    for children with atypical behavior or development.
    • Collaborates with the Disabilities Coordinator to provide appropriate treatment recommendations.
    • Participates in behavior planning for children with identified behavioral health needs, to work in conjunction with parents and staff to develop a comprehensive plan of action to address behavioral health issues.
    • Coordinates with family development specialist and/or lead teacher to arrange conferences with parents: 1) elicit parental input and observation of their child’s behavior, 2) share staff observations and 3) provide parent education on appropriate responses to behavioral issues, creating a nurturing environment and strengthening familial relationships.
    • Encourages participation of parents when behavioral health interventions are needed.
    • Facilitates staff/parent communication regarding child behavior and behavioral health needs.
  • Supports a team approach by working with the Early Head Start and Head Start Coordinators, Supervisors and staff to meet Performance Standards and further the goals of the program.
    • Consults with staff on how to use findings from developmental, sensory, or behavioral screenings to address identified behavioral health needs.
    • Attends all appropriate meetings and workshops and serves on appropriate committees relating to Early Head Start and Head Start upon request
    • Identifies and reports suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to Child Protective Services, with copies to Head Start Director, Supervisor of Health Services, Supervisor of Family Services and Supervisor of Education.
    • Works with Family Development Services staff to secure support services for families with CPS reports are necessary.
    • Keeps supervisor, other coordinators, and Early Head Start/Head Start staff informed of all behavioral health activity.
    • Responds to Behavioral Health Alerts within 5 working days and follows up on behavioral health needs according to the Behavioral Health Process in the Policy and Procedures Manual.
    • Helps to monitor responses to recommendations for classroom interventions and referrals for professional services.
  • Works closely with behavioral health professionals in the community.
    • Appropriate services and support will be delivered and/or linked by the therapist.
    • Coordinates the behavioral health professional services to whom referrals are made.
    • Collaborates with Head Start/Early Head Start to develop behavioral health services that meet Performance Standards.
    • Develops and maintains a resource record of behavioral health services in the community including contact persons, services provided, eligibility, referral procedures, and associated costs
  • Assists parents or family members in participation of child behavioral health interventions when necessary
    • Attends meetings with parent and behavioral health professionals as needed
    • Makes referrals for psychological assessments as needed.
    • Conducts parent training, education and referral as needed.
    • Works with Supervisors to locate sources of funding to pay for intervention.
  • Works with service area coordinators to ensure access to behavioral health services for parents
    • Implements educational activities for staff and parents regarding preventative behavioral health and focusing on wellness rather than illness.
    • Facilitates access for parents to behavioral health consultation, support groups, and training opportunities in regards to appropriate responses to behaviors, creating nurturing environments, relationships in the home and understanding typical behavioral health needs.
    • Works with the Supervisor of Education and Education
  • Coordinators to plan educational activities and offer resources for staff and parents on behavioral health issues.
  • Performs other duties as assigned and required.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Demonstrated ability to gather and organize information in cohesive reports.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Experience working with families and children in crisis. 

TRAINING, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • LCSW and Masters Degree in Human Services and licensed eligible is required.
  • At TAP, we focus on the Whole Family Approach.   Whole Family is a family led strategy to achieve set goals.  As an employee you may be required to attend Whole Family training and subject to data entry into the agency’s software as part of the Whole Family approach and serving clients

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid Virginia Operator’s license with a good driving record and reliable transportation.
  • TAP participates in the Virginia DMV Driver Alert Program.  Employees who operate a TAP vehicle or their personal vehicle to conduct TAP business may be subject to driver record monitoring through the Virginia DMV Driver Alert Program.
  • This position is eligible for remote work upon supervisor’s approval.
  • Must pass drug screening.  Some positions require positive complete background screening including: criminal, sex offender and child protective services.

This description provides information regarding the essential functions of the designated job, and general nature and level of work associated with the job.  It should not be interpreted to describe all the duties that may be required of such employees or be used to limit the nature and extent of assignments such an individual may be given.

Every TAP employee shares in TAP’s responsibility to “Mobilize Community Resources” in support of TAP’s anti-poverty efforts.

We only hire individuals legally eligible for employment in the United States.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug Free Workplace

Bilinguals Encouraged to Apply