SAGINAW INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT HEAD START
Position Title: Associate Teacher
Department: Education
Supervisor: Teacher
Employment Status: Non-Exempt, Non-Management
A. General Summary
The Associate Teacher supports the classroom teaching team by assisting in planning, preparation, and execution of daily classroom operations in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards. This position assumes full teaching responsibilities during teacher planning times and absences. It also promotes parent involvement and supports overall program goals. Reassignments to different classrooms or centers may occur as needed.
B. Duties and Responsibilities
Professional Development
-
Attend all required trainings, workshops, and meetings (including online and cluster meetings).
-
Maintain CDA credential and actively pursue an Associate’s degree.
-
Stay informed on Head Start Performance Standards, licensing regulations, and child development practices.
-
Maintain knowledge of universal precautions and workplace safety.
-
Work with children of all developmental levels.
-
Maintain certifications required for the position, including Basic First Aid and CPR.
-
Engage in ongoing professional development.
Preschool Program Implementation
-
Assist in classroom operations and other service areas.
-
Participate in recruitment and transportation support.
-
Assume teacher responsibilities when needed.
-
Support delivery of services per program standards and procedures.
-
Help create a safe, stimulating learning environment for children birth to five years old.
-
Ensure classroom safety using the Daily Health and Safety Checklist.
-
Promote self-esteem and school readiness through positive interactions and curriculum participation.
-
Assist in developmental screenings, observations, assessments, and planning.
-
Supervise and dine with children to model proper nutrition and social skills.
-
Encourage parent volunteerism and collect in-kind documentation.
-
Support kitchen and bus aide duties as needed.
C. Knowledge and Abilities
-
Understand the mission and function of Head Start/Early Head Start.
-
Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to privacy laws (FERPA, HIPAA).
-
Implement Active Supervision techniques for child safety.
-
Relate sensitively and effectively to children and families of diverse backgrounds.
-
Know basic food safety, preparation, and sanitation.
-
Take initiative and follow instructions.
-
Possess knowledge of child development and relevant software (e.g., Word, Excel, Teaching Strategies Gold).
-
Understand child protection laws and licensing regulations.
-
Engage families respectfully, support parent-child relationships, and collaborate as part of a service team.
D. Physical Demands and Work Conditions
-
Moderate to loud noise levels typical of a classroom.
-
Travel may be required (local or out-of-state); occasional overnight stays.
-
Work occurs primarily in a classroom setting, with some office responsibilities.
-
Evening and weekend work may be required for events.
-
Riding the bus with students may be necessary.
Physical Requirements:
Includes sitting on the floor or child-sized furniture, lifting up to 75 lbs., kneeling, standing, walking, stair climbing, and use of fine/gross motor skills. Visual and auditory discrimination, judgment, and decision-making are essential. Exposure to communicable diseases and pests may occur. The position is a Category A OSHA role and a mandated reporter for abuse/neglect.
Personal Qualifications:
Must demonstrate emotional maturity, flexibility, patience, good hygiene, physical/mental health, and a collaborative approach with families and children.
E. Education and Experience
-
CDA credential and experience with preschool children required.
-
Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development with two years’ experience preferred.
-
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
-
Must obtain and maintain Basic First Aid and CPR certifications.
-
Must pass TB test, drug screen, criminal background check, and health exam prior to employment.
Preference given to current/former Head Start employees, parents, and students.
F. Compensation
Pay Range: $17.20 – $19.76 per hour (based on credentials)
SISD – Saginaw County Head Start is a customer-driven, family-friendly program that values professionalism, teamwork, and cooperation.
Notice of Nondiscrimination
Saginaw Intermediate School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, or national origin in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.
Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to:
Andrea Wise, Executive Director of Human Resources
Saginaw Intermediate School District
3933 Barnard Road, Saginaw, MI 48603
Phone: (989) 799-4733
