POSITION SUMMARY:

The teacher aide assists the classroom teaching team in developing a classroom atmosphere where children can grow and develop in a safe and positive learning space. Candidates must have a passion for creating a safe and nurturing environment for children to receive a quality education.

Chicago Commons believes the Reggio-Inspired approach to learning is one that mirrors our values. The Reggio-inspired approach to education is where children, families, and teachers work together to create a dynamic and problem-solving approach to learning. Our teachers aim to empower children to explore and learn in a unique environment that encourages a child's critical thinking and creativity.

Our early childhood program serves as the backbone for many at-risk Chicago communities, including West Humboldt Park, Pilsen, Bronzeville, and New City/Back of the Yards. These neighborhoods are impacted by high rates of poverty and limited educational and economic resources.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

(These include but are not limited to the following. The company reserves the right to add to, delete, change or modify the essential duties and responsibilities at any time.)

• Assists the teaching team in planning, implementing and evaluating developmentally appropriate activities for young children including the following activities: Self Image, Language/Literacy Development, Music and Movement, Social Studies, Science, Math, Art, Large/Small Motor Activities, and In-Depth Projects.

• Assists with classroom coverage during lunchtime and when back-up coverage is needed.

• Assists the teaching team in developing a classroom environment that is a welcoming learning environment for children and their families

• Assists with supervision and interaction of children during all activities

• Develops strong partnerships with the families

• Shares responsibility for preparation and clean-up of all classroom activities

• Attends and participates in parent meetings, in-service trainings, and weekly team meetings.

• Assists with the implementation of the Reggio Emilia Philosophy, focusing on in depth studies and classroom explorations

• Maintains reports on children’s growth and development

• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

(To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or 60 semester hours of credits from an accredited college or university with 6 semester hours in courses related directly to child care and/or child development, from birth to age 6 or 1 year (1560 clock hours) of child development experience in a nursery school, kindergarten, or licensed day care center and 30 semester hours of credits from an accredited college or university with 6 semester in courses related directly to child care and/or child development, from birth to age 6.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to read and write English proficiently. Candidates must regularly operate a word-processing system and therefore must be able to read, produce and transmit data on such a system

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Candidates must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds and are frequently required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.

COMPENSATION:

An attractive and competitive compensation and benefits package will be available commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Chicago Commons is an equal opportunity employer.