Job Summary:

The Teacher Assistant at KinderFrogs, a laboratory school at TCU's College of Education, is responsible for supporting the development of children ages 18 months to 5 years with Down syndrome by assisting teaching staff in delivering a nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Guides students' personal, social, and developmental growth by supporting classroom rules and procedures; encouraging student participation; understanding the curriculum and the developmental and educational implications of Down syndrome and related disabilities.
2. Provides information by answering questions and requests, referring inquiries to the appropriate staff member; appropriately and professionally interacting with parents, staff, TCU students, and faculty, and visitors.
3. Maintains a safe, clean, and organized learning environment by keeping classrooms and supplies in order, completing cleaning and laundry as needed. Follow state daycare licensing procedures regarding classroom environment and management
4. Assists in childcare responsibilities by organizing and preparing lunches and snacks; feeding and diapering children as needed.
5. Supervises and facilitates activities by organizing play, instructing small groups, assisting in childhood development projects, and actively engaging with children during daily activities.
6. Supports children's communication needs by utilizing sign language, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies, and other tools as directed by teaching staff.
7. Collaborates with TCU College of Education faculty, students, and outside specialists (e.g., speech, occupational, and physical therapists) to support each child's individualized goals.
8. Contributes to a positive, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture by demonstrating professionalism, collegiality, and a team-first attitude in all interactions with colleagues, families, and TCU community members.
9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• Associate’s degree in early childhood education, Child Development, Special Education, or a related field; OR a High School diploma/GED with a minimum of 2 years of experience working with young children with special needs.
• 1–2 years of related experience working with children, preferably in an early childhood or special education setting.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood special education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Experience working with children with Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities.
• Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and early intervention strategies.
• Familiarity with Texas Daycare Minimum Standards for Child Care Centers

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• Child Development Associate (CDA) Certification or actively working toward obtaining the certification.
• CPR and Basic First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• Training or coursework in special education, early intervention, or applied behavior analysis (ABA).
• American Sign Language (ASL) training or proficiency.