Pre-k Teacher

This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy and Assistant Head of Pedagogy.

Compensation & Benefits

Pay Range: $21 - $25 per hour (USD).

• Eligibility to participate in our Teacher Housing program
• Medical Health Insurance: 75% of the premium paid to start, increasing to 90% after one-year service anniversary
• Dental & Vision insurance: 75% of the premium paid to start, increasing to 90% after one-year service anniversary
• Free snacks and beverages
• Free CPR/First Aid training and other professional development opportunities throughout the year
• 2 Paid Mental Health Days per year
• Paid Federal Holidays, including Juneteenth and MLK Day
• Special Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel)
• 403 B retirement plan (comparable to 401K)
• Paid Time Off (PTO):
  • 5 weeks of PTO starting at year one
  • 7 weeks after 2 years
  • 8 weeks after 5 years
  • Includes pre-scheduled breaks:
    • 1 week Spring Break (March)
    • 2 weeks Winter Break (December/January)
    • 1 week Summer Break (July)
  • Flexible PTO for personal use:
    • 1 week in your first year (starts after first 30 days)
    • 2 weeks after your second year
    • 3 weeks after your third year

Responsibilities

Daily Classroom Operations

• Maintain high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the school’s philosophy and curriculum approach.
• Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects children’s interests and supports inquiry-based learning.
• Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns.
• Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage.
• Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community.
• Support and lead with Co-Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom.
• Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements.

Curriculum and Documentation

• Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.
• Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible.
• Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend children’s thinking and inquiry.
• Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.
• Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms.
• Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice.

Family and Child Engagement

• Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of children’s growth and development.
• Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives.
• Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices.
• Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise.

Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities

• Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team.
• Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, training, and school events.
• Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication.
• Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program.

Garden to Table Integration

• Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate.
• Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects.
• Support children’s participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting.
• Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role.
• Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning.
• Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.

Core Competencies and Expectations

• Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture.
• Builds meaningful relationships with children and families.
• Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively.
• Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts.
• Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.