Child Development Associate Jobs in Alexandria, VA

Founded more than a century ago, Holton-Arms School encourages young women in grades 3-12 to approach the world with a thirst for challenge, unflinching curiosity, and a sense of responsibility to use what they learn for the greatest good. A nationally-recognized school that prioritizes purposeful connections, Holton is a vibrant place where both students and faculty are deeply engaged in the process of learning and bring tremendous spirit and passion to their work.

With a long legacy of excellence in educating girls, Holton provides students with time-tested and future-forward programming, preparing them for what the world needs next. The mission of the Holton-Arms School is to cultivate the unique potential of young women through the “education not only of the mind, but of the soul and spirit.” Founded in 1901 by two visionary women, Holton-Arms continues to cultivate a diverse, inclusive, and equitable school community; tend to the health and wellbeing of its members; and build a global curriculum that responds to the learners in its classrooms and the world around us.

The school’s aspirations and current program are rooted in Mrs. Holton’s founding vision: “My high hope is that they who enter through the ‘Open Door’ of Holton-Arms remember they felt, in the friendliness of a home, the urge to learn and the joy of overcoming obstacles as the way to happiness and the fullest life.” In this vibrant community committed to academic excellence, discovery, creativity, and joy, students are scholars, artists, and athletes who find their voices, take risks, learn from mistakes, pursue leadership opportunities, and build lifelong friendships. The school motto, Inveniam viam aut faciam (I will find a way or make one), exemplifies this spirit of agency and empowerment.

We seek applicants from diverse backgrounds, talents, and interests who share our passion for helping girls learn, grow, and thrive. Together, we are committed to cultivating the leaders of tomorrow who will make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

Position Summary

The Holton-Arms School seeks a collaborative, flexible, and enthusiastic Lead Toddler Teacher to join the Brown House Child Development Center. This position is responsible for leading a classroom of six toddlers (12-18 months old) with another lead teacher while providing a nurturing, safe, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.

The Brown House Child Development Center serves the children of Holton-Arms faculty and staff, as well as families from our partner schools. The Lead Toddler Teacher works closely with the Director and fellow teaching staff to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children while supporting their growth through engaging, age-appropriate activities and experiences.

The ideal candidate is passionate about early childhood education, has experience working with infants, and is committed to building strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Candidates must meet all qualifications for an Infant Lead Teacher as established by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Office of Child Care.

This is a full-time, school-year position running from mid-August through mid-June. Operating hours are Monday–Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and successfully complete all required background checks and screening processes.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver age-appropriate lesson plans using a curriculum provided by Holton Arms Child Development Center.
• Maintain a safe environment where children can play and learn.
• Work as team member both within your class and across classes with all staff to ensure all the needs of every child is met.
• Ability to lift and carry a child who weighs up to about 40 pounds.

Qualifications and Experience

• Thorough knowledge of Early Childhood Education and best practices in the field.
• Excellent verbal communication. Ability to build a relationship with children and families.
• A desire to make a difference in the lives of children daily.
• Strong Organization skills.

Required Education and Experience

• Age: Must be 19 years of age or older.
• Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• MSDE Lead Teacher Qualification: Must meet Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Office of Child Care requirements for a Lead Teacher by holding one of the following:
  • An active Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
  • An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
  • A 90-hour Child Care Certificate (45 hours of Child Growth and Development + 45 hours of Age-Appropriate Curriculum).
• Experience: Minimum of 1 year of supervised experience working with children in a licensed child care center, preschool, or school-age program (or 30 college credits/equivalent combination).
• Core Certifications: Must possess (or be willing to obtain prior to start date):
  • Current certification in First Aid and Infant/Child CPR.
  • 9-hour Communication training certificate.
  • 3-hour ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance training certificate.
• Health & Safety: Ability to successfully complete MSDE-approved Basic Health & Safety training, Supporting Breastfeeding training, and Safe Sleep/SIDS training (if applicable) within the required state timeline.

Ongoing Professional Requirements

• Background Clearances: Must successfully pass a federal and state criminal background check, fingerprinting, and a medical clearance/TB test.
• Professional Development: Commitment to maintaining 12 clock hours of MSDE-approved continued training annually to preserve Lead Teacher status.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

Holton-Arms cherishes the uniqueness of each of our members including current and former students, faculty, and staff. We seek to create an inclusive environment that sees, values, and supports diverse identities and experiences, cultivates engaging discourse, and empowers our students to be thriving members of the global community. At Holton-Arms, each of us is responsible for fostering an equitable, respectful, and just community.

Compensation and Benefits

The hourly wage range for this position is $40,500.00 - $50,000.00. Benefits include health insurance with a generous employer contribution to medical, dental and vision; life and disability insurance; 403b retirement savings with an employer match and non-elective contribution; employee assistance program, tuition remission for eligible children; professional development opportunities; paid parental leave after one year of employment; paid sick and personal days; and lunch is provided on school days.

Application Details

To be considered for this position, candidates should submit a resume and the names and contact information of three references (one of whom must be a current or most recent supervisor).