Lead Teacher - Ojibwe Immersion Classroom

Job Summary

The Family Partnership is seeking a Lead Teacher for their Ojibwe Immersion Classroom at their Four Directions Family Center.

Responsibilities

• Supporting and implementing Ojibwe language immersion practices in collaboration with Wicoie language instructors.
• Integrating Ojibwe language, stories, songs, values, seasonal teachings, and cultural activities into daily routines.
• Creating a classroom environment that reflects and honors Indigenous identity, community history, and traditional knowledge.
• Participating in ongoing learning to strengthen Ojibwe language use.
• Providing a safe, healthy, developmentally appropriate classroom aligned with DHS licensing rules and CACFP standards.
• Developing weekly lesson plans that blend early childhood curriculum with culturally sustaining practices.
• Implementing the curriculum and completing child assessments three times per year.
• Adapting activities to support individual developmental needs, strengths, and learning styles.
• Working with onsite occupational therapists, speech/language pathologists, mental health clinicians, and program specialists to support individualized goals.
• Including parents and caregivers in assessment, goal setting, and progress updates.
• Participating in family conferences and assisting with appropriate referrals.
• Ensuring continuous supervision of children in compliance with DHS standards.
• Maintaining accurate documentation, including daily notes, attendance, assessments, and required records.
• Maintaining cleanliness and safety of classroom spaces through daily sanitizing and safety checks.
• Participating in field trips, cultural events, community gatherings, and outdoor activities.

Qualifications

• Hold a CDA or equivalent (minimum 24 child development college credits).
• At least 6 months of experience in a childcare or early education setting.
• Experience working with diverse and/or Indigenous communities and demonstrate cultural humility.
• Demonstrate knowledge of child development from infancy through school age.
• Commitment to learning or deepening Ojibwe language use in the classroom (support provided).
• Demonstrate positive, developmentally appropriate behavior guidance skills.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the role, including lifting up to 50 pounds (to lift children and/or equipment as needed) and participating in active play with children.
• Ability to communicate respectfully with families representing many cultures, languages, and identities.