JOB SUMMARY:
Plans and implements developmentally appropriate curriculum in a home-like classroom setting for preschool-aged children. Oversee the work of teaching assistant and volunteers, including student teachers. Participates in collaborate decision making and evaluation of the program as an on-going improvement process. Develops partnership relationships with family members to better meet the needs of the child. Ensures classroom and Center compliance with policies, procedures and other regulatory standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Complete the Easterseals Blake Foundation & Center’s new employee requirements for employment: orientation and training requirements, reporting suspected child abuse, and health requirements as specified by the Office of Child Care Licensure.
Design and maintain a home-like classroom environment to enhance culturally sensitive learning based on the developmental needs of the children.
Develop curriculum considering the age and experience of the children, reflecting all areas of development including physical, emotional, social, language and cognitive skills.
Adapt the curriculum and instruction to meet the needs of the individual child’s strengths, needs and interests.
Implement the Individual Family Service Plan or Individual Educational Plan for children with special needs.
Use a variety of teaching strategies to encourage learning, following the individual child’s lead and preferred modality for learning.
Facilitate each child’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning by engaging in collaborative inquiry with them.
Foster interaction and cooperation among the children. Encourage children to lead their own small group activities.
Conduct on-going developmental assessments for all children.
Establish partnerships with parents and families in order to achieve shared goals for children. Offer and conduct parent conferences 4 times a year.
Work collaboratively with the Director, colleagues and community organizations in best serving the child’s needs.
Provide instruction and supervision for teaching assistants, volunteers and student teachers.
Share information with colleagues which facilitates continuity of care throughout the child’s day.
Work with teaching team to implement program curriculum, following policies, procedures and practices that result in positive outcomes for children and families.
Participate in professional development opportunities by enrolling in higher education programs, conferences and trainings.
Attend planning, informational and quality assurance meetings.
Maintain strict confidentiality concerning children and families.
Maintain high standards of professional and ethical conduct.
Maintain required documentation and reporting on each child.
Complete annual continuing educational requirements as specified by Office of Child Care Licensure.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of typical and atypical child development.
Knowledge of developmentally appropriate care and best educational practices supported by research and evaluation.
Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural and linguistic diversity.
Knowledge of methods to include children with differing levels of developmental abilities.
Knowledge of Reggio Emilia programs and ability to implement programming based on theoretical practice.
Ability to be self-directed when necessary, yet flexible when needs of the children change.
Ability to use principles of reflective practice with children, families and colleagues.
Ability to develop reciprocal, mutually respectful relationships with children, family members and colleagues.
Ability to work as a collaborative member of a team.
Ability to read, write and speak English.
Ability to use technology as a tool for record-keeping, documentation and investigation.
EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION/LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development or closely related field
One year experience in licensed or regulated early care and education program
OTHER GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
Qualified employees who are interested in applying must first notify their current Supervisor of their intent to apply for another job opening within EBF for informational purposes
Qualified employees must have held their current position with EBF for a least twelve (12) consecutive months and, have a satisfactory performance record and have no disciplinary actions during the last twelve (12) consecutive months
Must submit a valid Fingerprint Clearance Card on hire OR pass a Criminal History Background Check prior to beginning employment and submit an active Fingerprint Clearance Card after hire.
Maintain a current valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a driving record that meets EBF requirements
Minimum qualifications;
High School diploma, enrolled in ECE classes at the college level, working on obtaining a CDA and an AA degree.