Teacher Assistant, West

Why join UCS?

Since 1958, United Counseling Service (UCS) has been dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals and families in our community. Through a wide range of programs, services, and educational opportunities, we strive to meet the diverse needs of those we serve. Our team includes professionals from various fields, including administration, clinical services, nursing, education, case management, psychiatry, and direct support, working across 17 facilities throughout Bennington County.

As a proud affiliate of Vermont Care Partners-a statewide network of 16 non-profit community-based agencies-we deliver comprehensive mental health, substance use, and intellectual and developmental services across Vermont. We are currently seeking compassionate, motivated team players to join us in making a positive impact and building a stronger community.

UCS Offers Generous Benefits

• Competitive pay
  
• Generous paid time off
  
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  
• Retirement plan with employer match
  
• Employer paid life insurance
  
• Employer paid short term and long-term disability insurance
  
• Employee Assistance Program
  
• Career development opportunities
  
• Free clinical supervision towards licensure
  
• Loan repayment and tuition assistance program
  
• Award winning worksite wellness program
  
• An inclusive workplace supported by an active Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee.
  
• Rewarding experience making a difference in the community.
  

We believe a dynamic and inclusive workforce will strengthen our organization and enhance the services we provide. Therefore, it is our goal to hire a diverse workforce and cultivate a culture where our employees feel accepted and included, hold a valued place within our organization and are equally able to contribute to their fullest extent, assisting in fulfilling our mission of building a stronger community.

Why is UCS a great place to work?

Under the direction of the Teacher and/or the Education Manager, the Teacher Assistant helps to create and maintain an atmosphere in the classroom in which children feel welcome, valued, comfortable, and secure. In addition, assists Teacher in involving parents in educational activities and participates in classroom activities.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

EDUCATION: The Teacher Assistant cooperates with the Teacher to plan a schedule of daily activities, to plan field trips, and special projects. Prepares educational materials and classroom environment for daily activities. Acts as the Teacher in Teacher’s absence.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES: As directed by the Teacher, the Teacher Assistant will supervise play activities, participate in activities, and direct small and large group activities. Observe, record, and report children's behavior and play. They will help children with self-care routines and provide aid to children who experience difficulty or loss of control and intervene in situations where injury may result. Provide active supervision in the classroom, at off-site experiences, field trips, and on the Head Start bus (Bus Monitor).

CLASSROOM MAINTENANCE: The Teacher Assistant will maintain educational supplies and art materials, monitor equipment and supplies, and cooperate with the teacher to maintain an orderly classroom environment. This includes with clean-up at mealtime and after playtime.

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT: In addition, provides childcare during after-hour parent events at a minimum of two shifts per year. During events, completes intake forms with parents. Helps parents to feel comfortable in their role as classroom helpers and involves parents in activities and projects. Refers parent's questions to the Teacher, as appropriate. To meet the changing needs of families, it may be necessary to schedule meetings and family events after regular hours.

RECORDKEEPING: Helps to maintain a complete record of each child enrolled as required by federal and state regulations. Maintain accurate attendance records, written records of conversations with parents, and ongoing daily observations. Observations are to be entered into assessment program to allow for accurate assessments to be completed on each child. Ensures BFIS credential account is up to date.

• In addition to the above, performs other duties as assigned.
  

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
  
• Per OHS requirement, must hold a valid Child Development Associate (CDA) or associate degree in early childhood education (AA), or be enrolled in a program leading to a CDA or AA within 2 years of employment
  
• Valid Driver's License