Employment Type: Full-Time | Non-Exempt
Schedule: Monday through Friday.
Operating Hours: 8 am - 5:30 pm.
Job Description:
Looking for a Lead teacher for a progressive preschool in the Irvine area. We are only interested in candidates who have a passion for the field and meet all the requirements listed. We're looking for people who have chosen early education as their career, not just a job. You must love children... that's a given, but you also must love life. We want to know your professional goals and help create the path that will allow you to achieve them, to grow beyond them, and even more so, we want to know your personal goals. Ultimately, a happy you make for a happy kid, a happy parent, and a happy place.
All applicants must have a clear understanding of an emergent curriculum as well as the ability to implement a blended curriculum. Teachers must have experience working with children of all ages, and the ability to meet all children's needs. Must enjoy working in a team setting as well as the ability to work independently, prioritize responsibilities, and manage time. Punctual and dependable.
Still with us? Move on to step two. Read about the position.
Qualifications:
- Lead teachers must have a minimum of 12 units in Early Childhood Education. A B.A. degree or higher in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field is preferred.
- Knowledge of early childhood development, group care settings, and developmentally appropriate practices.
- Lead Teachers must have experience working in a preschool setting and an understanding of emergent curriculum.
- Teachers must possess strong skills in: organization, professionalism, reading, time management, planning, oral and written communication, interpersonal relationships, family/child relations, and basic computer use.
- Teachers must be 18 years old, and fluent in English.
- Lead Teachers encourage family involvement and support the development of positive relationships among children, families, and staff within the Piper Preschool community.
- Must meet all applicable California Department of Social Services and childcare licensing requirements
Responsibilities:
- Lead Teachers consistently participate in direct interaction with children, serve as faculty for professional development activities and community-based events, and are responsible for the duties listed below, as well as any others assigned by members of Administration.
- Lead teachers are responsible for planning and implementing curriculum, caring for and supervising children in their care while creating a well-organized classroom.
- They are expected to communicate with their team on a daily basis.
- Lead teachers report to members of Administration, as directed by school policy.
General Expectations:
- Lead by example and maintain a positive and professional attitude.
- Reflect on the Four Agreements for guidance in daily interactions.
- Mentor and support new faculty in the classroom, modeling Piper Preschool culture and expectations.
- Adhere to assigned work hours as outlined in the employment contract.
- Maintain a sanitary environment by routinely sanitizing toys, furniture, and materials.
- Change diapers and clothing as needed, following proper hygiene and safety procedures.
- Properly dispose of soiled diapers and label/store soiled clothing appropriately.
- Support potty-training based on the developmental needs of each child and plan.
- Share daily documentation regarding diapering and sleep schedules with families through the Playground app.
- Check emails daily and respond in a timely manner.
- Communicate all daily classroom duties and routines with the team.
- Inform Admin of all injuries, incidents, concerns, or developmental observations.
Physical Demands:
- Frequently crouch, crawl, stoop, or bend.
- Stand for extended periods of time.
- Sit on the floor or low seating for extended periods of time.
- Work comfortably in indoor and outdoor environments.
- Frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
- Change diapers and assist with toileting routines.
- React quickly and appropriately in emergencies.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
- Follow state, federal and Piper guidelines regarding immunizations, employment physical, and required health and safety training and practices.
Skills:
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Professional demeanor and reliability.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to foster positive family-child relationships.
- Reading comprehension and attention to detail.
- Comfortable using technology.
Benefits:
At Piper, we offer competitive pay, a fun place to work, coffee, tea, snacks, and year-round employee appreciation activities. Our team enjoys engaging events such as scavenger hunts, trivia competitions, and guessing games with opportunities to win prizes. We also provide professional development and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement savings plan after 12 months of service. We strive to create a workplace where employees feel connected and excited to come to work each day.
How to Apply:
Please use the link below to submit your cover letter and resume.