Department Summary:

The Vision of Head Start and Early Head Start is a noble one: “changing lives to change tomorrow.” Drake University Head Start and Early Head Start programs support the comprehensive development of children from birth to age 5, in classroom settings, home-based programs, & childcare partner locations.

Drake University offers generous tuition waiver and tuition exchange benefits. If you, your partner/spouse, or dependent children are interested in pursuing a degree, these are wonderful benefits.

Job Summary:

Drake University Head Start is seeking a dedicated candidate to serve as a Teacher Associate at our Ames location, 3012 Duff Ave, Ames Iowa 50010. The ideal candidate will be passionate about encouraging children ages 0-5 to develop a positive self-concept through supportive and cheerful interaction. The role consists of light cooking, personal care (toileting, hand washing, teeth brushing), participating in the development of activities for children based on their interests and individual needs, and completing some required paperwork.

All Drake Head Start employees must assure compliance with Federal Head Start Program Performance Standards, state and local regulations and rules, confidentiality of all documents maintained in the department, and promote Head Start philosophy and initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• The ability to obtain a Preschool CDA (Child Development Associate) credential,

• Current driver's license and ability to be insured by the University's insurance carrier.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Head Start experience
• Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or enrollment in a CDA program within two years of hire.

Job Duties:

40% - Prepare breakfast, lunch, snack, beverages and any required recipes by following proper and safe food preparation methods. Prepare and maintain all necessary paperwork and records according to CACFP guidelines. Record all necessary data into the program data base. Drive for business purposes to make necessary purchases and pickups. Participate in snack and mealtime activities by assisting staff with serving food, eating with children, and cleaning up after meals following CACFP guidelines - (Essential)

30% - Work with the teacher to develop activities for children based on their interests and individual needs. Encourage the children to develop a positive self-concept through supportive and cheerful interaction. Assist with instruction by following lesson plans while adapting plans to meet individual learning styles. Promote successful classroom performance for each student. Assist teacher with documentation and observations and supervision of children in classroom and non-classroom settings such as indoor large motor activities, playground, outings away from the classroom, arrival and dismissal times, etc. - (Essential)

10% - Maintain an organized and clean classroom. Ensure that all health and safety procedures are followed in all classroom and outdoor activities. Ensure clean up after each activity and assist the teacher with the special needs of the entire center. - (Essential)

10% - Provide assistance to the children during their daily bathroom routines by offering direction and support when needed, including the changing of diapers and pull-ups. - (Essential)

5% - Continue professional growth by attending classes and workshops, reading new materials, and contributing resources and ideas to the program. Ensure compliance with Federal Head Start Program Performance Standards, state and local regulations and rules. Promote Head Start philosophy and initiatives. Represent Drake University and the Drake University Head Start program in a professional manner. - (Essential)

5% - Develop and maintain good communication while respecting confidentiality of information and documentation. Treat clients, coworkers, staff, partners and community members with respect, civility, and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for everyone at all times. Prompt and regular attendance. Other duties as assigned. - (Essential)