Early Childhood Teacher

About the role

If you’re looking for an opportunity to transform the lives of poor and homeless men, women, and children in your community, we may have a job for you. Since 1972, Metropolitan Ministries has been providing life-changing solutions for those who are homeless and at risk of becoming homeless in Tampa Bay. We are a grassroots, donor, and volunteer-fueled community nonprofit. At Metropolitan Ministries, we serve families in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk and Hernando counties with compassion, practical help, and a willingness to make a huge difference.

Job Functions

The Early Childhood Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing age-appropriate educational activities and curriculum for the assigned age group, fostering a safe and engaging learning environment. Additionally, they are responsible for administering assessments to track child development and identify any developmental delays.

Essential Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate curriculum using best practices and the highest standards of care.
• Ensure all classroom activities align with CREATE’s policies and with Metropolitan Ministries' mission, vision, and guiding values, prioritizing the safety and well-being of children and families.
• Prepare and submit weekly lesson plans to the supervisor on time.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records on each child, including progress notes and health documentation.
• Promptly inform the supervisor of any special needs, unusual behaviors, or incidents.
• Ensure the safety, security, and cleanliness of all classroom and playground equipment and materials.
• Administer and score student assessments and utilize knowledge of community resources to provide referrals for children’s specific needs.
• Adhere strictly to all state childcare licensing guidelines and NECPA accreditation standards.
• Participate in ongoing training as required by childcare state licensing and accreditation.
• Continue to implement the sanctuary culture and the understanding of the seven commitments.

Requirements

• Education and Experience: Minimum of an Associate’s degree (AA) or equivalent, plus a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Completion of 40 hours of training in early childhood education and 5 hours of literacy training (required). At least 1 year of experience working as an Early Childhood Teacher. A MMCI certification is preferred.

Skills

• Use knowledge of best practices and the highest standard of care to plan and administer developmentally appropriate curriculum in the classroom, ensuring alignment with CREATE policies and the mission, vision, and guiding values of Metropolitan Ministries.
• Curriculum and classroom management should always prioritize the care, safety, and welfare of children and their families.
• Prepare and submit weekly lesson plans to the Director.
• Maintain detailed records on children, including anecdotal progress notes and health documentation, and promptly inform the Director of any special needs, unusual behaviors, or incidents.
• Ensure the safety, security, and cleanliness of all CREATE classroom equipment.
• Administer and score student assessments and utilize knowledge of community resources to provide referrals for specific children’s needs.
• Adhere strictly to all licensing guidelines and participate in ongoing training as required by state childcare regulations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Hearing and speaking ability, which allows for effective oral communication of information.
• Physical, emotional and spiritual stamina to handle job-related issues and stress.

Other

• Must demonstrate legal authorization to work in the United States.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in English.
• Valid FL driver’s license with a good driving record and insured vehicle in order to transport self and clients when necessary.

Qualifications

• All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
• We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace that includes partners with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• We believe that enables us to better meet our mission and values while serving individuals throughout our local communities.
• People of color, women, LGBTQIA+, Veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
• Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with all federal state and local ordinances.
• Metropolitan Ministries is committed to offering reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities.