Job Title: Center Assistant

Supervisory Responsibility: Reports to Family & Center Specialist

Job Summary:

The Center Assistant is responsible for promoting school readiness by providing relational learning and enhancing the social and cognitive development of children in Early Childhood Centers. This role includes supporting day-to-day classroom operations, assisting in meal planning and food service, ensuring a safe and healthy environment, and building strong partnerships with families and staff while adhering to all state, federal, and programmatic standards.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Team with staff to recruit eligible children and participate in orientation for each newly enrolled child. 
• Substitute in Head Start (HS)/Early Head Start (EHS) classrooms as needed and collaborate with staff to provide a developmentally appropriate classroom environment using Creative Curriculum and related frameworks.
• Use Conscious Discipline methods for behavior management and follow program protocols to guide behaviors.
• Assist in completing child screenings and developmental assessments.
• Provide a safe classroom environment following Michigan Licensing Rules, program performance standards, and safety protocols.
• Implement active supervision practices to ensure children's safety and ensure children are only released to authorized adults.
• Maintain cleanliness of the center and report incidents, injuries, or other occurrences as needed. Help develop and implement emergency procedures and safety protocols, including for health and food allergies.
• Create nutritious menus following guidelines, ensuring food safety and allergy accommodations. Prepare and serve meals, following the U.S. Department of Agriculture/Child and Adult Care Food Program (USDA/CACFP) regulations and record food temperatures.
• Support children during mealtimes and engage in conversations.
• Maintain communication with parents through written updates as required.
• Encourage family involvement in their child's education and assist teachers in building partnerships with families.
• Ensure individualization of services for children with disabilities based on Individualized Family Service Plans/Individualized Education Programs (IFSP/IEP) goals.

Education and Experience:

• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential with an emphasis on infant and toddler development. 
• Demonstrates good moral character as defined by the Licensing Rule for Childcare Center.
• Prior experience working with low-income/at-risk families and collaborating with community members.

Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:30pm