Teacher Mentor
South Carolina Association of Community Action Partnerships, Inc.
TEACHER MENTOR POSITION DESCRIPTION
GENERAL SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the SCACAP EHS-CCP Education Coordinator, the SCACAP EHS-CCP Teacher Mentor is responsible for mentoring and coaching center-based and home-based teaching staff, promoting staff growth and development and positive child outcomes. Ensure the delivery of high quality education services in compliance with all performance standards, licensing requirements, policies, procedures and quality initiatives.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Promote the delivery of high quality developmentally appropriate infant/toddler education experiences that facilitate growth and development, support school readiness, and comply with Federal Head Start Performance Standards, Early Learning Standards, Licensing regulations and Quality Initiatives.
- Assist with developing and follow a regular schedule for conducting classroom and home-based program observations; provide constructive feedback and support to teaching staff for learning and growth; develop goals to strengthen teaching practices and improve child outcomes.
- Utilize a variety of tools and resources to ensure appropriate mentoring/coaching supports are provided including; reading materials, modeling, videotaping, reflective practices and other resources to guide learning.
- Assist teaching and home visiting staff with the development and implementation of weekly lesson plans, daily routines and goal documentation and ensure they incorporate parent engagement, individualization, IFSP goals, and multi-cultural and multi-lingual support.
- Support teaching staff in fully implementing their identified curriculum including Creative Curriculum, Conscious Discipline Curriculum, and the ongoing assessment system Teaching Strategies GOLD.
- Assess the quality of teacher-child interactions and home visitor interactions with parents and children; assist teachers and home visitors with planning and implementing strategies that will improve interactions.
- Attend staff, parent, community and state meetings to build effective relationships, provide training, report updates and stay informed on the latest research and best practices in the Early Childhood field.
- Ensure a team approach to service delivery; communicate, coordinate and collaborate with internal staff and external partners as appropriate.
- Assist with identifying areas for staff growth and professional development; assist with arranging and presenting staff trainings.
- Other duties and responsibilities as requested by supervisor.
Additional Responsibilities:
1. Participate in the team process, both within the department and the corporation.
2. Attend internal and external meetings.
3. Pursue continuous education and professional development opportunities.
4. Frequent driving within county to partner sites.
5. Out-of-town travel with occasional overnight stays.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Required Bachelor degree in early childhood education or a major relating to early childhood education, with a focus on infant/toddler development.
- Three years’ experience teaching in an early childhood classroom setting including one or more years in an infant/toddler classroom or program.
- One to three years’ experience working with word processing, spreadsheet, internet, and database software.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:
- Knowledge of quality infant/toddler programs
- Knowledge of infant/toddler development
- Knowledge of software applications. Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet, internet and database software
- Ability to build strong networks to more effectively serve the Early Head Start program
- Ability to work collaboratively
- Ability to demonstrate strong organizational and planning skills, good communication, and positive attitude and behavior in all program activities
- Ability to be flexible and adapt to frequent changes
- Knowledge of community resources and/or how to find information on community resources
- Skill in promoting sensitivity to cultural differences and cultural competency
- Ability to maintain First Aid and CPR certifications
Additional Requirements:
1. Maintain a valid driver’s license, and maintain a safe driving record.
2. Must have insured, dependable transportation available for daily use.
3. Must submit to state and federal criminal checks prior to employment.
In accordance with Federal Regulations agencies must assure that each staff member has an initial health examination (that includes screening for tuberculosis) and a periodic re-examination (as recommended by their health care provider or as mandated by State, Tribal, or local laws) so as to assure that they do not, because of communicable diseases, pose a significant risk to the health or safety of others in the Early Head Start or Head Start program that cannot be eliminated or reduced by reasonable accommodation. This requirement must be implemented consistent with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.