Classroom Assistant (Head Start)

EPIC Early Learning is excited to announce an opening for a Classroom Assistant in our Head Start program. As a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education, EPIC has been serving families in Central Washington for over 45 years. Our Head Start program is designed to prepare children for school success through rich learning experiences that foster developmental growth.

The Classroom Assistant works in collaboration with the Team Leader and Family Services Teacher (FST) to ensure the preschool classroom provides an educational environment that is developmentally and linguistically appropriate and accommodates children’s individual rates of development as well as individual interests, temperaments, cultural backgrounds and learning styles. This role also ensures the classroom is safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive. The CA will work with the Team Leader and FST to ensure that the team works in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards/USDA requirements, state licensing requirements and agency policies and procedures. 

Responsibilities

• Assist with classroom activities, preparation of materials, and developmental screenings.
• Support child safety, supervision, and reporting protocols, including child abuse and neglect policies.
• Conduct and document child observations and parent interactions.
• Help schedule and participate in parent-teacher conferences and home visits.
• Support classroom volunteers and ensure culturally responsive, inclusive practices.
• Maintain a safe and sanitary environment; respond to emergencies as needed with CPR/first aid.
• Promote a culture of safety and the “Speak Up, Speak Out” initiative.
• Document in-kind contributions and support ongoing professional development.
• Participate in family nights, staff meetings, training, and other center activities.
• Assist with safe transporation of children by serving as a Transportation Assistant when needed.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• HS/GED Required.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License & Auto insurance
•   Washington State ECE Initial Certificate or Preschool Child Development Associate Certificate (CDA). * Candidates who do not meet the minimum education requirement must meet this requirement within two (2) years of hire date and will be placed on a Professional Development Plan.
• One year classroom work experience with preschool children.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work closely with other team members, ability to grasp a team-centered approach to delivery of services for children and families.

Pay Rate: $19.46 to $22.96 per hour

Location: 902 E. Viola Ave, Yakima, WA 98901

·         Medical/Dental/ Vision Plans

·         Sick Leave (5 hours per payroll)

·         Annual Leave (4 hours per payroll)

·         9 Paid Holidays

·         Employee Assistance Program

·         Basic Life Insurance

·         403 B (Employer match after 1 year or 1,000 hours)

·         As an employee of an Early Learning Non-Profit organization, you may be eligible for student loan forgiveness and childcare subsidy benefits. Additional information will be provided upon hire.