EARLY CHILDHOOD INSTRUCTOR

**INTERNAL APPLICANTS - PLEASE NOTE THIS POSITION IS A GRADE 7**

Under general supervision, provides instruction, care, and support for children ranging from three months old through fifth grade. Plans and implements developmentally appropriate and age-appropriate activities that encourage social, emotional, physical and cognitive development. Assists with the organization and delivery of various childcare activities using best practices. Promotes the Early Childhood program’s mission and philosophy. Reports to the Early Childhood Site Supervisor.

• Ensures the safety and health of children by adhering to local and state regulations. Provides direct supervision at all times for children in their care
• Performs classroom instructional duties, creates and implements lesson plans that align with the program’s curriculum.
• Fosters children’s natural play, reading, and quiet-time activities, which encourage social interaction between children
• Maintains high moral standards; be well disposed around children. Exhibits professionalism at all times.
• Creates a safe and positive learning environment for young children incorporating creative and engaging teaching methods to cater to diverse learners.
• Manages classroom transitions, routines, and behavior issues effectively.
• Utilizes positive reinforcement techniques to promote children's social and emotional development.
• Assesses children's progress, sets goals, and adjusts curriculum based on individual needs. Conducts parent-teacher conferences.
• Keeps the center's supervisor informed of important information regarding the safety and well-being of children.
• Maintains open communication with parents and collaborates with parents to support children's learning at home.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings, center events, and parent meetings.
• Supervises assigned childcare service areas; including but not limited to ensuring that safety precautions are observed; overseeing the use of equipment and materials.
• Cares for and maintains assigned equipment, teaching aids and materials.
• Provides direction and mentors subordinates and volunteers.
• Provides a supportive environment for program participants.
• Maintains a positive and creative personality to help children learn and have fun throughout the day.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent and 1 year of experience working with children in a licensed childcare facility; or an equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Must be certified in First Aid and Pediatric CPR, including management of a blocked airway and rescue breathing.

Special Requirements:
Must meet one of the following:

• An undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Social Work, Nursing, or other child-related field, and a
• Minimum of 1 year experience working in a childcare program serving children ages 0-5; or
• A national competency-based early childhood credential such as the CCP, CDA, or state equivalent (example, Florida Childcare Professional Credential), and 2 years of experience as a teacher serving the children of the age-groups in care; or
• A combination of coursework and experience including: a high school diploma or GED, a minimum of 4 college level courses in:
  • Early Childhood Education and Child Development, and a minimum of 3 years  of experience working in a childcare program serving children ages 0-5.
• Must successfully pass a Level 2 background screening prior to interacting with children.
• Must successfully clear a sexual predator check prior to interacting with children.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the principles, rules and equipment requirements of common childcare activities.
• Knowledge of safety precautions and basic emergency first aid procedures.
• Knowledge of English, including spelling, composition, and grammar.
• Ability to speak and write effectively.
• Ability to instruct individuals and groups in a variety of childcare activities.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, parents and the public.
• Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.
• Ability to maintain routine records and prepare reports.
• Ability to adapt to an evolving and continually improving environment.  
• Ability to respond to supervision, guidance and direction of superiors in a positive, receptive manner and in accordance with stated policies and procedures.
• Ability to demonstrate an understanding, consideration, and respect of cultural, religious, and gender differences when interacting with the general public and colleagues.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Requires light physical effort including lifting up to 25 pounds. May require occasional crouching, kneeling, bending, or stooping. Frequent periods of standing or walking may be required.

Salary : $37,869 - $55,476