(1) Program assistants may be employed to assist in program and curriculum under the direction of a lead teacher or higher.

(2) Program assistants under eighteen years of age must not be left in charge of a group of children and may care for children only under direct, visual or auditory supervision by a lead teacher or higher.

(3) Program assistants eighteen years of age or older may have sole responsibility for a child or group of children for a brief period of time when there is a staff person on the premises who meets the lead teacher qualifications.

(4) Program assistants must have the understanding, ability, physical health, emotional stability and good judgment to meet the needs of the children in care.

(5) Program assistants must:

(a) Be sixteen years of age or older;

(b) Have a TB test as required under WAC 170-297-1750;

(c) Have a background clearance as required under chapter 170-06 WAC;

(d) Have current CPR and first-aid training as required under WAC 170-297-1825;

(e) Complete HIV/AIDS training and annual bloodborne pathogens training as required under WAC 170-297-1850;

(f) Have a food worker card, if applicable; and

(g) Attend an agency orientation as required under WAC 170-297-5800.

(6) Program assistants are counted in the staff-to-child ratio.