Kindergarten Kids’ Place Assistant

indergarten Kids’ Place Assistant
Job Description
 
Functions:
Under the direction of the Recreation Supervisor, Kindergarten Kids’ Place Assistant is responsible for the supervision and coordination of the half day Kindergarten program. The Kindergarten Kids’ Place Assistant is directly responsible for assigning the director’s plan and organizing all daily activities of Kindergarten Kids’ Place located at the Johnston Recreation Center.
 
Immediate Supervisor:
Responsible to the Recreation Supervisor.
 
Qualifications

• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess basic knowledge and understanding of school aged children.
• Be a self-starter and perform job with little supervision.
• Possess the ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Possess the ability to follow written and oral directions.
• Must be able to handle any questions that arise with the public by answering them or by giving them the proper directions for the answer.
• Must be honest, in good health, accurate, have a neat appearance, and a courteous manner.
• In good physical condition.
• Must possess current first aid/CPR certification.

• Provide participants with the appropriate leadership during the program.
• Prepare the classroom prior to starting time.
• Clean and straighten the classroom during and after program.
• Assist the Kindergarten Director in the preparation of activities that are developmentally appropriate for the age of the children.
• Collect permission slips and money for field trips and special days.
• Prepare materials for classroom use, such as cutting, copying, paint etc.
• Participate in classroom activities with the children.
• In the absence of the Kindergarten Kids’ Place Director the Assistant shall perform the daily duties of the Kindergarten Director and assist the sub.
• Communicate with the parents through daily drop-off and pick-up as needed.
• Maintain a safe environment for participants.
• Assist in maintaining records of attendance/sign-out sheets and/or ePACT.
• Attend staff meetings as needed.
• Maintain a positive attitude toward co-workers and the Park District.
• Report any problems that arise with participants or other employees to the Recreation Supervisor.
• Keep the Kindergarten room neat and orderly.
• The Assistant may need to respond quickly and accurately.
• Utilize ePACT and use the tablet as required.
• Follow all safety policies.
• Must be able to be physically active to help lead activities and field trips.
• Must be able to safely escort children to and from their activities.
• Put out chairs.
• Make sure classroom is clean and toys are put away from day before and before care.
• Make sure name tags are for correct class.
• Check what is on the calendar for the day and see if there is anything that needs to be done before class starts (copying, cutting, etc.).
• When door opens, greet kids with a smile. Remind kids how to start the day (put belongings in cubby, sit at table or on the carpet, and not play with toys).
• Participate in songs/flag.
• Read a story if asked to.
• Sit nearby and be a part of the class.
• Snacks Time:
  • Help kids open snacks.
  • Clean up spills.
  • Sweep floor after snack and clean off tables.
• Work Time/Free Play:
  • Get out crayons/coloring sheets/pencils.
  • Keep an eye on kids to make sure they are sharing/being good to each other
  • Copy when needed.
• Clean up messes when needed (including bathroom issues/throw up).
• Clean up:
  • Make sure the kids are putting toys away in correct bins.
  • Put away crayons/pencils/glue or whatever is on the tables.
  • Clean up whatever toys are left out.
  • Make sure bookshelf is straightened.
• Going outside/gym:
  • Note on door notifying parents where you are.
  • First aid kit.
  • If a child needs to go to the bathroom and we are outside, make sure you take at least two (2) kids with you to go inside to the bathroom.
  • Coats (if needed).
• Clean up any leftover items that are left out including toys and books.
• Change nametags to next class.
• Straighten up if needed.

• Make recommendations to the Recreation Supervisor for improvement on equipment, supplies, facility, and program needs.
• Set up and move furniture.
• Clean up room after program is finished.
• Be flexible and adaptable to new situations.
• Assist in other recreation programs as needed.

• Must have the ability to solve problems as they arise and be able to perform tasks without supervision.
• Must be highly motivated and able to assume a positive and active role in the program, even while working under potentially stressful conditions (hot or cold weather, upset or injured participants, etc.).
• Must have the ability to be firm with participants, when necessary, enforce Park District rules, and make sound decisions to secure the safety and well-being of all participants, facilities, and equipment.
• Ability to work independently without supervision.
• Ability to present ideas and recommendations in a concise manner.
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal and/or written instructions efficiently and effectively and to read and understand printed material.
• Ability to effectively interact and communicate well with others.
• Ability to interpret and explain division and District policies and procedures.
• Ability to follow safety guidelines and exercise judgment in all aspects of responsibility.

• The Assistant must resolve differences and problems that arise with patrons and employees. The worker may also have to work under stressful situations when first aid or CPR is required.

• Prolonged standing could affect some individual’s blood pressure. 
• Assistant may need to respond quickly and accurately.
• Must have the ability to move furniture.
• Must be able to organize/clean up room.