About This Role
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Services Assistant to assist in the implementation of a comprehensive child development program while supporting children, families, and classroom staff through positive behavioral strategies and evidence-based practices.
What You'll Do
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Assist in the implementation of a comprehensive child development program.
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Engage in ongoing assessment.
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Promote social and emotional development of children while maintaining appropriate classroom discipline using positive guidance techniques.
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Supervise and interact with children in all daily activities at all times.
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Initiate the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process for children with disabilities.
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Assist in recording and maintaining documentation and submitting reports as required.
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Participate in meetings and required trainings as directed by the management team.
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Provide positive behavioral strategies for children and families.
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Ensure behavioral management systems are implemented in consultation with the disabilities/mental health manager and the mental health consultant.
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Model research and evidence-based procedures for children’s behaviors.
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Develop positive, nurturing relationships with children and families.
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Provide positive emotional support and implement strategies to diminish challenges in the classroom.
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Provide continuous modeling and guidance on positive behavior intervention strategies and social skill building with children.
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Assist children in their emotional, cognitive, and social development.
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Maintain accurate records/files and document interactions and services.
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Assist in classroom and playground duties.
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Maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
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Observe, assess, refer, and evaluate each child’s progress in the assigned classroom.
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Assist in planning and implementing classroom activities based on individual needs to advance physical and intellectual competence.
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Welcome families to participate in classroom, home, and community learning activities and encourage volunteer participation in the program.
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Encourage parents, families, and community members to support the program through gifts of time, goods, and/or monetary donations to ensure program local match (in-kind).
Requirements
Education Requirements:
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Minimum of High school diploma or GED
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Must participate in specialized trainings as determined by the program.
Experience Requirements:
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Knowledge of adverse childhood experiences (ACES) and the impact on children/families.
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Knowledge of positive behavioral support systems, behavior management, and early intervention.
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Knowledge of child development and early childhood education.
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Ability to communicate openly with community resources, professionals, staff, parents, and children.
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Evidence of emotional stability and maturity and must be flexible and open to change.
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Basic computer knowledge required.
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A natural concern, empathy, and enjoyment of Head Start children and their families.
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Able to remain calm and supportive when faced with challenging behavior.
Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
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Must obtain a pre-employment physical and screen for communicable diseases.
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Must obtain First Aid and CPR and keep updated.
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Must agree to pre-employment background check
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Demonstrate a willingness to continue professional development.
Nice To Haves
Education: Prefer degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related degree or credential.
Benefits
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Health Insurance
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Dental Insurance
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Vision Insurance
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Life Insurance
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Paid Leave
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Sick Leave
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Retirement Plan
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Tuition Assistance
About Us
Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority, Inc. Head Start / Early Head Start Program serves more than 700 children ages 0-5 years in eight counties in East TN: Blount, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Monroe, Sevier and Union. Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities. They also receive support to access free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing outdoors in a safe setting. Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities.
Our employees have access to:
- Up to 14 paid holidays per year
- Sick leave and Personal time
- Option to participate in State of Tennessee 401(k) savings plan
- Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System
- Group Health Insurance partially paid by the agency with other insurance products available.
