Pre-K Teacher

Job Title: Pre-K Teacher

Macon County Schools

Position Summary
The Pre-K Teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality early childhood instruction in alignment with the North Carolina Pre-K (NC Pre-K) Program Requirements and the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development. The teacher promotes school readiness by supporting the cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language development of children ages 3–5 in a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and implement instruction aligned with the NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development, including domains of:
• Approaches to Play and Learning
• Emotional and Social Development
• Health and Physical Development
• Language Development and Communication
• Cognitive Development
• Use developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) and play-based instruction to support active learning
• Implement curriculum and ongoing assessment practices consistent with NC Pre-K Program Requirements
• Conduct ongoing child assessment using approved tools (e.g., Teaching Strategies GOLD or other state-approved assessments) to inform instruction
• Maintain individual student records, portfolios, and documentation in compliance with NC Pre-K guidelines
• Develop and implement strategies that support school readiness goals established by NC DPI
• Create and maintain a structured, predictable daily schedule that includes whole group, small group, and individualized instruction
• Ensure a safe, healthy, and engaging learning environment that meets NC Child Care Rules and sanitation standards
• Build strong partnerships with families through regular communication, conferences, and engagement activities in alignment with family engagement expectations of NC Pre-K
• Collaborate with teacher assistants, EC staff, related service providers, and administrators to support all learners
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including children with disabilities and dual language learners
• Participate in required professional development and training related to NC Pre-K standards and early childhood best practices
• Ensure full compliance with NC Pre-K Program Requirements, including:
• Teacher/child ratios
• Licensing requirements
• Health and safety regulations
• Program monitoring and documentation
• Adhere to all Macon County Schools policies, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) regulations, and federal guidelines

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth–Kindergarten, or related field
• Valid North Carolina Birth–Kindergarten (B-K) or Preschool Add-on license
• Must meet NC Pre-K Program lead teacher requirements
• Experience in a preschool or Pre-K setting preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development
• Understanding of developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) and early childhood pedagogy
• Ability to use formative assessment data to guide instruction
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills
• Effective communication and collaboration with families and staff
• Commitment to equity and supporting diverse learners

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, and active interaction with children
• Ability to supervise children in indoor and outdoor environments