Mental health

POSITION AVAILABLE: Wyoming Child & Family Development, Inc. Casper Head Start Center is now scheduling interviews for a Mental Health Para.? This is a part-time position for 15 hours a week 176 days a year.?? No weekends, and most major holidays off as well as an extended winter break.?? ? For more details, including the complete job description, and to apply please visit: We look forward to visiting with you!?

The base hourly rate is $15.59.

Application deadline: November 18, 2025

For questions, please contact the Center Director, Jennifer at [email protected]?or call 307-266-5480.

"This institution is an equal opportunity provider."

Job Summary:

In this role, you will assist the classroom teacher in implementing an individualized, developmentally appropriate early childhood education program, with a focus on supporting each child's social competence and school readiness. This role includes helping children develop emotional regulation, positive social skills, and foundational academic skills through play-based learning and structured activities. The paraeducator will provide targeted support to children with unique emotional or developmental needs, ensuring a safe and nurturing classroom environment. By collaborating with both teachers and families, the paraeducator will help create an inclusive space that fosters growth and readiness for school. This position requires a commitment to promoting mental well-being and fostering a positive, supportive learning experience for all students.

Duties/Responsibilities:

All duties will comply with Head Start/Early Head Start standards, DFS licensing, NAEYC guidelines, Wyoming Division of Disabilities regulations, and WCFD policies. All employees will adhere to the mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures of WCFD.

• Recruit children for the program in accordance with guidelines from the Department of Health and Human Services and WCFD.
• Provide care based on knowledge of child development and growth.
• Deliver direct services to children, families, and staff in various settings regardless of weather conditions.
• Communicate positively with staff, children, and families through both verbal and nonverbal methods.
• Work effectively with children who have behavioral concerns, developmental disabilities, and/or learning impairments.
• Assist children in developing social competence by guiding interactions, promoting emotional regulation, and teaching positive social skills. Encourage problem-solving, empathy, and cooperative behaviors in both structured and free-play environments.
• Assist in organizing and implementing group socialization activities for children and families.
• Complete all required paperwork accurately and on time.
• Provide individualized educational activities to help children explore, develop problem-solving skills, and build self-confidence.
• Support Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) and/or Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals in collaboration with teachers, family support providers, and therapists.
• Keep classroom areas clean, organized, and safe.
• Assume full classroom responsibilities when needed.
• Perform minor first aid and routine hygienic care.
• Provide regular care to children, including diaper changes, feeding, and comforting.
• Participate in child screenings as necessary.
• Assist with outdoor and playground activities.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Board or its designee.

Education and Experience :

• Must have a High School Diploma or a G.E.D. and be 18 years of age (state requirements).
• Must attain additional training or certifications, which may be required by Wyoming Child and Family Development, Inc.
• WCFD will only accept college degrees from accredited institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.