UNIVERSAL PRE-KINDERGARTEN CERTIFIED TEACHER ASSISTANT (UPK)

Part-time position with excellent benefits within the Utica City School District ; 30 hours per week when school is in session

Join a dedicated team preparing our community’s young children for a successful academic career.

JOB DESCRIPTION: Under the ultimate direction of the Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) Supervisor, the UPK Certified Teacher Assistant is responsible to assist the UPK Teacher in the planning and implementation of a program for social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of children in the UPK classroom. The TA is responsible for assisting in the daily provision of activities and establishing a healthy routine for a group of children in the Utica City School District’s UPK program. The TA will also assist in providing age appropriate curriculum, daily activities and a positive framework for a safe and enriching classroom environment.

SPECIFIC JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists the UPK Teacher with preparation, implementation and evaluation of the classroom activities and curriculum as a whole as well as specific activities.
• Cares for children’s physical needs, which may involve lifting and carrying very young children if necessary.
• Assists in maintaining an environment that is safe, healthy, orderly and appealing.
• Shares with the UPK Teacher observations and insights relating to specific children in the group.
• Alerts the UPK Teacher to children with special needs, to problems, incidents and emergencies to ensure appropriate intervention is taken.
• Develops and maintains a cooperative working relationship with UPK students’ parents and guardians.
• Assists in planning and implementing educational and recreational activities that meet varying student needs.
• Provides classroom instruction in the absence of the Teacher
• Reports to the UPK Teacher the need for supplies, materials, equipment and repairs.
• Participates effectively in supervisory conferences and staff meetings
• Maintains a professional manner at all times and adheres to the School District and The Neighborhood Center policies, procedures, and mission statements.
• Assists with other related responsibilities as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• New York State Teaching Assistant Certificate; Level One (1) or higher.

At The Neighborhood Center, Inc, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to the success of our organization and are dedicated to creating a workplace that welcomes and values all individuals. We strive to create a culture that fosters respect, openness, and understanding, and we encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for open positions.