VPK Teacher - Full Time

About the Role

The primary purpose of the Teacher is to implement the infant, toddler, or preschool program and the general supervision and management of a group of children.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement a program that meets the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social needs of both the individual and the group, through developmentally appropriate practices, in accordance with the policies and philosophy of the program.
• Write objectives for the group.
• Assume responsibility in conjunction with co-workers for preparing and posting weekly lesson plans and submitting a copy to the director one week before teaching.
• Post all curriculum information, schedule, and menus for parents.
• Engage with children and encourage their involvement in group activities.
• Tailor the program to the needs of the individual child, with concern for their interests, special needs, talents, and individual style and pace of learning.
• Plan and supervise class outings/field trips when age-appropriate.
• Observe, record, and report significant individual and/or group behavior/illness and keep co-workers and the director informed.
• Ensure children’s daily notes are completed.
• Keep accurate records of children’s attendance and progress, including written comments on each child’s development.
• Evaluate each child’s progress and communicate these professional observations to the appropriate teammates and to the child’s parents through participation in formal conferences offered at least twice a year.
• Establish and maintain good communication with parents through verbal contact on a daily basis, written notes, and/or phone conversations, and by wearing a nametag. Sensitive issues must be discussed with the director before approaching the parents.
• Actively supervise and ensure the safety and well-being of the children at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Be alert to the needs and/or problems of the children as individuals and as a group.
• Know how many children are in the group and where they are at all times. Never leave a child or group of children unattended.
• Serve as a knowledgeable resource for other staff.
• Train and supervise the activities of assistants, aides, substitutes, and new co-workers assigned to the group, helping them relate to and supervise the children.
• Use and understand progressive discipline. Model appropriate positive behavior guidelines and techniques, and train other staff so that positive discipline is consistent.
• Work together with all program staff to solve problems, achieve goals, and respectfully communicate needs.
• Responsible for educational resource materials, equipment, classroom atmosphere, and initiating communication with the director regarding program needs and concerns.
• Maintain cleanliness in the assigned room or area, including vacuuming, mopping, sink/bathroom cleaning, counter tops, and room clean up.
• Share responsibility with other staff members for the general maintenance and cleanliness of the entire building and grounds under the direction and supervision of the director.
• Be flexible to the staffing needs of the entire program, not just a specific group, and understand that hours are subject to change due to fluctuating enrollment and the needs of the program.
• Monitor the staff-to-child ratio in the group and inform the director of any significant change.
• Assist in the evacuation of the building in an emergency and be able to respond immediately to any emergency situation.
• Comply with all applicable universal precautions and infection control guidelines and procedures.
• Be familiar with and abide by licensing regulations and all program policies and procedures.
• Attend professional workshops and participate in in-service training as required by the department of human services.
• Attend all staff meetings and participate in program and family events.
• Arrive in the classroom on time and be ready to interact positively with all children, parents, and staff.
• Use love rituals throughout the day with the children.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Child Development Associate (CDA) and/or degree in Early Childhood Education.
• 15-hour Emergent Literacy Training (ELT).
• Experience in teaching in an early childhood classroom, supervising staff, and managing a childcare center.
• Must possess leadership and communication skills.
• CPR certification within 90 days of employment.

Qualifications

• Must meet all applicable state and federal requirements for this position.
• Certificate or degree in child development or a related field with an emphasis in early childhood education.

Knowledge and Critical Skills

• Ability to make independent decisions and follow instructions.
• Deal tactfully with personnel, prospects, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel, and the public.
• Capable of working with ill, disabled, elderly, and emotionally upset people within the facility.
• Communicate effectively in a manner that is sufficient for effective communication with supervisors, team members, prospects, residents, and families.
• Knowledge/proficiency of Microsoft Office Suite.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds at times.
• Alternating between standing and sitting.

Schedule: Monday-Friday | 8:30AM-5:30PM

Pay: $16.50-$18.50/hr