Lead Teacher

COMPANY BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Competitive pay
• Paid Vacation, Sick and Holiday Leave
• 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental and Vision benefits for employees
• 401(k) Retirement Program with partial matching contributions
• Section 125 Flexible Benefits Plan: FSA/Childcare/Dependent Premium plan

JOB SUMMARY

The purpose of the Preschool Lead Teacher is to create and maintain an early learning environment that meets the individual needs of the holistic child. This is an on-site position that will report directly to the Center Director and Program Supervisor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR POSITION
Education, Training and/or Experience

• Experience working with children ages 3-5 years in a child care setting preferred
• AA/BA degree in ECE or current CDA preferred
• Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Lead Teacher in a child care setting preferred
• TB Test
• Merit background check and fingerprint if applicable
• Current Food Handlers Permit
• Current CPR, First Aid and Blood Borne Pathogens certified
• Registered in MERIT (https://apps.dcyf.wa.gov/MERIT)
• Maintains a current STARS/MERIT training (10 hours) annually
• Safe Sleep (www.dcyftraining.com)
• Child Care Basics (Complete 30 hours www.cdastars.com )

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job

• Ability to lift 25 lbs
• Must be able to get on and off the floor

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Essential duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following

• Follow program policies
• Must be able to create and implement a weekly curriculum
• Professional appearance
• General Working Habits
  • Arrives on time
  • Reliable in attendance
  • Responsible in job duties
  • Alert in health and safety matters
  • Flexible with assignments and schedule
  • Remains calm in tense situations
• Interaction with Children
  • Friendly, warm and affectionate
  • Eye to eye contact
  • Uses modulated, appropriate voice
  • Shows respect for individuals
  • Is aware of developmental levels
  • Encourages independence and self-help
  • Avoids stereotyping and labeling
  • Reinforces and uses positive behavior
  • Regularly records and develops observations for preschoolers
  • Shows empathy towards the needs of the individual child
• Classroom Management
  • Creates an inviting learning environment
  • Maintains a sanitized, clean, healthy and safe environment.
  • Meets the needs of the preschoolers: diaper changes (if applicable), meals, and nap time/down time requirements
  • Is prepared for the day’s activities and handles transition well
  • Is tactful with negative information
  • Shows respect for those from diverse backgrounds and maintains confidentiality
  • Seeks partnership with parents and involves them in center activities and events
• Enjoys working as part of a team, is flexible about assigned duties, strives to assume a fair share of work, communicates directly and avoids gossip
• Takes job seriously, seeks skill improvement, uses my time management wisely, and behaves in an ethical manner
• Other related duties as assigned by the ECE director