Assistant Toddler Teacher
The Jennifer Barnum Early Childhood Education Center is a program of Congregation Beth Israel, a Reform Jewish congregation founded in 1858 and affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism. The Jennie is a high-caliber Reform Jewish early childhood program for children aged six weeks through pre-k, located on the CBI Campus.
About the role
We are seeking an Assistant Toddler Teacher for our 12 months to 24 months classrooms, which can enroll up to 8 children with a 4:1 child-to-teacher ratio. The role involves attending to toddlers' daily needs, fostering secure attachments, and supporting their development through play-based learning, art projects, outdoor play, circle time, story time, and music. You will assist with toilet learning, record daily activities for parents via an app, and collaborate closely with the Lead Teacher to create a nurturing and engaging classroom environment.
Responsibilities
- Prepare snack and assist children with lunches from home
- Support toilet learning, diaper changes, and clothing changes as needed
- Assist the Lead Teacher in developing developmentally appropriate activities, curriculum, and art projects
- Help children fall asleep and attend to their developmental needs through music, storytelling, and exploration
- Facilitate outdoor play, including walks and playground time
- Record toileting, feeding, naps, and special moments for parents to review
- Assist with drop-off and pick-up, and communicate with parents as a back-up contact
- Document developmental milestones to create a developmental profile
- Support the Lead Teacher and work as part of a team
- Perform basic cleaning tasks, such as sterilizing dishes and toys
Requirements
- CPR/First Aid certified (training provided if needed)
- Food Handlers card (available online)
- One of the following:
- Completion of 20 semester credits in early childhood education or a related field
- A one-year state-recognized credential (e.g., CDA) working with children 0-2 years old
- Attainment of at least a Step 5 in the Oregon Registry
- At least 6 months of documented experience in a certified childcare center working with infants and toddlers
- 6 months of experience in a certified childcare center working with infants and toddlers AND completion of 10 semester credits in early childhood or a related field
- Ability to embrace and celebrate families and children from diverse backgrounds
- Physical ability to stand for long periods, kneel, squat, lift up to 30 pounds, and move comfortably on the floor
- Enthusiasm for teamwork, reliability, punctuality, and professionalism
- Commitment to following codes of conduct that promote children’s wellbeing and community
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with Judaism and Jewish traditions
- Experience with toddler environments and toilet learning
- Working knowledge of toddler developmental milestones and needs
Philosophy
The Jennie is guided by a child-led, play-based philosophy that emphasizes secure attachments, responsive caregiving, and fostering a lifelong love of learning. We integrate best practices from Montessori, RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers), Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia approaches, while incorporating Jewish values of education, curiosity, and community. Teachers act as guides, supporting children’s natural development through observation, reflection, and a nurturing environment that encourages creativity, exploration, and kindness.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off in addition to closures for major federal holidays, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and one-week breaks in winter and summer
- Competitive salaries and paid professional development opportunities, including teacher planning days and external courses
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Employee discount
- An environment committed to equity, inclusion, and holistic staff support