Nature Preschool Lead Teacher- part time

The teacher is responsible for developing a cohesive teaching team, coordinating the curriculum, and managing the day-to-day operational activities of the classroom. Teachers must understand children’s cognitive, social, emotional and physical development in order to ensure a safe and stimulating classroom environment where children are actively engaged and encouraged to succeed. The teacher must be skilled in communicating with both children and adults in order to meet the needs of the children, and resolve parental concerns. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Develop and implement emergent curriculum by developing classroom activities based on developmentally appropriate practices and PA Early Learning Standards.
• Lead by example; encourage teaching team success through modeling and coaching.
• Maintain communications with families through informal discussions, progress reports, and parent-teacher conferences. Keep the director informed and involved in these communications.
• Actively engage in activities; manage cleanliness, order, and availability of classroom materials.
• Organize indoor and outdoor spaces daily to keep the environment safe, clean, and accessible for children to use independently.
• Ensure all center policies and state regulations are met.
• Maintain accurate records, forms, and files in a timely manner
• Complete the required training and professional development through the course of the school year and attend monthly staff meetings

Expected Competencies 

• A strong understanding of early childhood development, the different stages of growth, and an awareness of young children’s needs.
• Desire and ability to engage children in learning experiences using developmentally appropriate pedagogy and group management techniques, and the ability to employ redirection and positive behavior modification strategies when confronted with challenging behaviors 
• Interest in the natural sciences, local flora and fauna, and outdoor-based education.
• High energy and the ability to work well with others (staff, children, and parents) and to foster a team environment.
• Strong work ethic and personal integrity displaying initiative and ownership
• Adapt and be flexible with quickly changing environments
• Team-oriented with strong interpersonal skills; work collaboratively with fellow staff and ability to communicate in a timely and respectful manner
• Strong oral and written communication skills and basic computer skills. 

Physical Demands/Work Environment 

The physical demand and work environment characteristics described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

During most of the year, Preschool staff spend the better part of their day outdoors. The employee must be able to: 

• Spend multiple hours outdoors in all weather (Heat, cold, rain, snow).
• Hike 2-5 miles a day on rough terrain, keeping pace with the children in their care. 
• Engage in sustained physical activity throughout the day. 
• Lift up to 50 pounds (size of a small child).
• Be able to hear, see, and guide children at all times.

Education, Experience, and Qualifications 

• Minimum of 2 years of professional teaching or child care experience.
• A bachelor’s degree or associate’s degree from an accredited college in early childhood education, child development, special education, or elementary education.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must clear a full background check.
• Must provide current documentation of a health screening and TB test.
• The successful candidate must provide proof of vaccination status. An exception to the COVID vaccine requirement may be considered for religious or medical reasons.

The Schuylkill Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation. We value a racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse work community and we strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. E.O.E.