Teacher Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

The First Class Pre-K Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing a high-quality, developmentally appropriate preschool program that meets Alabama First Class Pre-K standards. The Lead Teacher creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment that promotes school readiness and supports the physical, social, emotional, language, and cognitive development of four-year-old children.

The Lead Teacher works collaboratively with families, teaching assistants, administrators, and community partners to ensure children receive the highest quality early learning experience while maintaining compliance with Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education (ADECE) guidelines, DHR licensing requirements, and center policies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Curriculum

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with the Alabama First Class Pre-K Framework and Teaching Strategies GOLD assessment system.
• Create engaging learning experiences that promote school readiness and positive child outcomes.
• Utilize research-based instructional practices and intentional teaching strategies.
• Maintain a classroom environment that supports exploration, creativity, and active learning.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the individual needs of all learners.

Child Assessment and Documentation

• Conduct ongoing observations and assessments of children's growth and development.
• Maintain accurate child assessment records and portfolios.
• Use assessment data to guide instructional planning and individualize learning experiences.
• Complete required documentation and reporting in accordance with First Class Pre-K standards.

Classroom Management

• Establish and maintain a positive classroom culture that promotes respect, responsibility, and cooperation.
• Implement effective behavior guidance techniques that support social-emotional development.
• Ensure active supervision and maintain the safety and well-being of all children.
• Maintain required staff-to-child ratios and classroom compliance standards.

Family Engagement

• Foster positive relationships with families and encourage family participation.
• Conduct parent conferences and communicate regularly regarding children's progress.
• Share resources and strategies to support learning at home.
• Maintain confidentiality of child and family information.

Health and Safety

• Ensure compliance with Alabama DHR licensing regulations and Alabama First Class Pre-K requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
• Follow all health, sanitation, and emergency procedures.
• Participate in required safety drills and professional development activities.

Professional Responsibilities

• Attend all required Alabama First Class Pre-K trainings, meetings, and professional development sessions.
• Collaborate with administrators, teaching assistants, specialists, and community partners.
• Participate in classroom observations, coaching sessions, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Maintain all required certifications and credentials.

Work Schedule

Monday-Friday during program operating hours, with occasional evening meetings, family events, and professional development opportunities as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education (with appropriate early childhood coursework), or related field.
• Meet all Alabama First Class Pre-K Lead Teacher requirements.
• Ability to pass all required criminal background checks and clearances.
• Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain certification within 30 days of starting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Experience teaching in a state-funded Pre-K program.
• Experience with Teaching Strategies GOLD assessment system.
• Experience working with diverse populations and inclusive classrooms.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of child growth and development.
• Understanding of Alabama First Class Pre-K Standards and ADECE requirements.
• Strong classroom management and instructional skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to establish positive relationships with children, families, and staff.
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Proficiency with technology used for assessments and documentation.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to actively supervise children indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to sit on the floor, bend, kneel, and engage in classroom activities with children.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.