Early Childhood Program Specialist 3

About the role

Tacoma Community College seeks applicants for a Lead Teacher position in its early childhood program. This position is responsible for guiding the educational activities of children aged 1 month to 5 years, fostering their development in various areas, and interacting with parents, volunteers, and team members.

Responsibilities

• Guide individual and groups of children in developmentally appropriate practices using best practices.
• Implement guidance techniques that respect the individuality of each child.
• Respond to children with respect, courtesy, and an understanding of their developmental stage of growth.
• Use Teaching Strategies GOLD and related databases to maintain child educational files and related documentation.
• Achieve developmental progress assessments using tools like ECERS or ITERS.
• Develop and implement learning experiences based on observations of children’s interests and developmental needs.
• Provide on-the-job training and mentoring to staff.
• Communicate with the Program Manager and parents regarding child development.
• Participate in staff meetings and in-service training.
• Complete twenty hours of basic STARS training within six months of hire and maintain a minimum of ten hours annually.
• Communicate with visitors and parents, articulating the philosophies of the program and early childhood education.
• Understand and implement minimum licensing requirements as determined by the Department of Early Learning (DEL).
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education from an accredited college, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two years of experience working with preschool-age children in a group setting.
• Proficient experience using computer programs such as Outlook, Word, and Excel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from an accredited college or university preferred.
• Three years of experience working with preschool-age children.
• Experience working under the guidelines of an accredited early learning program.
• Experience as an Early Head Start Lead Teacher.
• Experience with Teaching Strategies GOLD and Creative Curriculum programs.

Skills

• Intellectual curiosity and innovative teaching.
• Welcome and model respectful interaction with others.
• Recognize and honor the importance of diversity in an educational community.
• Commitment to educating a racially and socioeconomically diverse student population.
• Commitment to teaching in a community college setting.
• Intentionally support and promote efforts related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Honor TCC’s mission promoting equitable access to educational opportunities.
• Reflect the diversity of the community.

Benefits

The successful candidate will be eligible for a comprehensive health care benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, vacation, sick, and personal leave, reduced tuition for the employee, and retirement benefits.

Pay

The salary range is $4,320 – $5,812.

Schedule

This is a full-time classified position scheduled to work Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm. Summer schedule is Monday through Thursday, working the hours of 7:00 am to 5:30pm. Schedule to be determined and flexibility in scheduling is required to meet department needs.