Early Learning Center

Join a vibrant, relationship-centered community that is shaping the future of inclusive early childhood education. The Early Learning Center, Inc. (ELC) is a welcoming program serving 46 infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, ages 6 weeks through 5 years. As a 4-STAR, S.E.E.D. certified program, we honor our legacy while embracing innovation. We invite educators who are energized by curiosity, inclusivity, and collaboration to join us and help re-imagine what early education can be.

As we expand into a new chapter, we're seeking a full-time infant and toddler educator to help us nurture a community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our Board of Directors includes SMC faculty, sustaining the strong academic roots on which we were built. If you're passionate about building meaningful connections with families, staff, and community members, we'd love to hear from you!

We Offer:

A supportive team environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a competitive compensation package, including a $1,000 sign-on bonus, vision, dental, and Employee Assistance Program.

As a trusted partner in building a safe, inclusive, and relationship-centered learning community, educators at the Early Learning Center (ELC) play a vital role in shaping the future of our young learners. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting Vermont Licensing Regulations, safety standards, and emergency procedures to ensure a secure environment.
• Maintaining open communication with families through regular updates, conferences, and daily updates via childcare management software.
• Designing and delivering developmentally appropriate curriculum and maintaining engaging play environments that foster curiosity and exploration.
• Embracing and honoring each child’s individuality, promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our program.
• Engaging in ongoing professional development (15 hours annually) and maintaining up-to-date CPR/first aid certification to ensure the well-being of our children and colleagues.
• Collaborating with colleagues through staff meetings, training, and reflective practice to build a strong, cohesive team.
• Maintaining confidentiality and professionalism at all times, upholding the trust and respect of our families and community.

The duties and responsibilities described are not a comprehensive list, and the scope of the job may evolve as our community grows and new opportunities arise.

Educators must meet the minimum qualifications and training outlined in the Vermont State Early Childhood Program Licensing Regulations.

In addition, candidates should have:

• Certificate/Credential or degree in Early Childhood Education (Associate, Bachelor’s, or Master’s) or equivalent experience/training, preferably with additional ECE credits.
• Infant/Child CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Satisfactory fingerprinted background check.

Additional Skills

• Strong oral and written communication, including technology skills.
• Ability to collaborate with staff, children, and families in a team-centered environment.
• Solid understanding of child development and early childhood education practices.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.

We welcome applicants with:

• Experience with inclusive, neuroaffirming, or anti-bias curricula, which align with our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Background in a play-based approach to early education, which emphasizes creativity and exploration.
• Skills in sensory-rich or nature-based learning environments, which promote holistic development.
• Familiarity with reflective supervision or coaching practices, which foster growth and self-awareness.
• Additional certifications (e.g., Child Development Associate, trauma-informed care), which demonstrate a commitment to excellence in early childhood education.
• Comfort with creative documentation tools (photos, portfolios, digital storytelling), which showcase children’s progress and creativity.
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities to support diverse families and promote language development.

At the Early Learning Center (ELC), we care for our educators as much as we care for our children.

We are proud to offer:

• $1,000 sign-on bonus (distributed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months)
• Vision and dental coverage
• Roth IRA through Vermont Saves and access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Competitive paid time off, including many holidays and your birthday, and childcare discounts
• $1,500 stipend for educators who receive their teaching license
• Ongoing professional development opportunities and reflective coaching
• A supportive, values-driven community where your growth matters
• Support and professional development through Seed and Sew

The Early Learning Center (ELC) is a non-profit early childhood program created in partnership with families, educators, and community members. We are a fully licensed, center-based program located at Fort Ethan Allen in Colchester, providing care and education for 38 children ages 6 weeks through 5 years.

At ELC, we believe children are competent learners from birth. We value their natural curiosity and individual ideas, and we facilitate learning through a developmentally appropriate, play-based, emergent curriculum. Our center is committed to providing the very best early childhood education experience for every child and family in our care.

✨Looking Ahead✨

In early 2026, ELC will move to our new home in Williston, our 3rd and largest location in our history. This expansion represents a bold step forward, doubling our space and deepening our commitment to inclusive, neuroaffirming environments. The new building will feature exciting amenities such as a dedicated art room, sensory break room, and library, along with designated space for staff and ample classroom space.

This move is more than a change of address, it’s our opportunity to re‑imagine what early education can be, and to welcome even more families into a community built on curiosity, respect, and inclusivity.