Title:

Early Childhood Assistant

(infants)

Work Unit:

SFPS Early Childhood Center

Reports To:

Early Childhood Center Director

Contract Length:

195 days

Pay Schedule:

Early Childhood Center Salary

Overtime Status:

Exempt

Hours:

7.5 hrs/ day

Union Status: NEA

Licensure: N/A

Note: All positions with Santa Fe Public Schools require a post-offer/pre-employment background check. Some positions have additional requirements as established by federal or state rules and regulations.

General Function:

Works alongside the Early Childhood Educator and assists certified school personnel in the performance of their duties. Works under the direct supervision of an Early Childhood Educator . Establishes effective rapport with children and encourages them to develop early learning skills, attitudes, and knowledge needed to provide a good learning foundation. Establishes positive relationships with families, caregivers, and with other staff members.

Education/Training/Experience

Minimum: Candidate must have a high school diploma or GED and complete the early childhood 45-hour entry course within six months of employment or approved 3-credit early care and education course or approved equivalent within 6 months of employment. Commit to obtaining the NM Childhood Development Certificate or Early Childhood Associate’s Degree. Must be at least 18 years old. First Aid/CPR Certificate.

Preferred: Prior experience working with infants.. Bilingual in English and Spanish. NM Childhood Development Certificate or Early Childhood Associate’s Degree.

Knowledge/Skills and Abilities:

Ability to implement lessons based on the teacher’s objectives and the needs and abilities of assigned children. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with children, peers, and families. Skill in oral and written communication. Ability to quickly adapt to changing classroom situations and needs. Ability to multitask. Patience and a sense of humor. Knowledge of effective classroom management techniques for children ages 12 weeks through three years old. Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in an early childhood classroom setting. Knowledge of NM Early Learning Guidelines. Ability to commit to continuous education and learning. Knowledge of word processing, databases, and technology. Ability to maintain positive relationships with children, families, teachers, administrators & community members.

Essential Job Functions

Performs all functions in accordance with established policies, procedures, safety and environmental regulations, facility and computer security policies and procedures. Functions are subject to change from time to time to meet the needs of the organization. Current essential responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Assists the teacher and other licensed personnel in an early learning classroom working with small groups, including preparation of instructional materials, maintaining health, safety, and cleanliness standards, and managing the physical well-being of the students.

2. Cooperates in the development and implementation of developmentally appropriate early learning opportunities.

3. Supports the implementation of developmentally appropriate lesson plans based on the New Mexico Early Learning Guidelines.

4. Supports a classroom environment conducive to learning by managing appropriate student behavior.

5. Will be required to change children’s diapers and assist in appropriate potty training techniques.

6. Assists with the documentation and completion of required portfolios, teacher and family reports.

7. Provides opportunities for family involvement and parenting education.

8. Participates with Early Childhood staff and attends professional development meetings.

9. Other duties as assigned.

Salary Range:

$30,653+ depending on experience and education

This position is dependent on the availability of ECECD funding.

Resources Used in Performing Job Include (but are not limited to):

Applicable instructional materials including age appropriate toys and manipulatives. Appropriate hygiene supplies for staff and students.

Physical/Cognitive Requirements:

Regularly required to stand and move throughout a room and/or facility. Communicate verbally and electronically. Uses hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. Frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, and/or crawl. Occasionally required to sit, climb, balance, and drive. Occasionally lifts and moves up to 40 pounds. May be required to frequently change diapers and lift children. Occasionally required to assist in the lifting or moving students of varying weights and sizes for hygiene or feeding purposes. Uses hands and arms to manipulate objects. May sit and stand for periods of time, including sitting on the floor. Directly responsible for the safety and well-being of small children.

Environmental Conditions:

Typical classroom with furniture sized to the childrens’ ages. Will be outside in various weather conditions for recess and noon duty. Moderate level of noise. Exposure to childhood illnesses. Supporting students with proper hygiene activities.

Personal Accountability:

1. Demonstrates reliability as evidenced by attendance records and punctuality.

2. Properly notifies supervisor and/or designee of absences or tardiness.

3. Begins and completes work within the allotted time.

4. Consistently appears in attire appropriate to the work environment.

5. Demonstrates skill in the use of equipment including its capabilities, limitations and appropriate/ special application.

6. Protects the district’s resources through appropriate and careful use of supplies and equipment.

7. Utilizes appropriate body mechanics to aid in the prevention of muscle strain/injury.

Santa Fe Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, medical/genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Date Revised: 05/26

2026-2027:SY Educational Assistant (EA) - Early Childhood Center