Preschool Teacher - Portuguese Speakers ONLY

PLEASE, DO NOT APPLY IF YOU DON'T SPEAK PORTUGUESE.

GIRAFAS seeks fluent Portuguese speakers to work as a toddler teacher (ages 10-36 months) or preschool teacher, for children ages 3 to 6. The ideal candidate is energetic, creative, caring, and passionate about his/her work with children and has the ability to create an engaging and nurturing environment that ensures safe and healthy development.

Full-Time: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm

Key Skills

• Strong understanding of child development/support and Montessori educational methods.
• Effective classroom management and leadership abilities.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with children, families, and colleagues.
• Creativity, adaptability, and proactive problem-solving skills.
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum and Child-Centered Support

• Plan and implement a Montessori curriculum tailored to children aged 10 to 36 months.
• Foster exploration, independence, and self-directed learning in alignment with Montessori principles.
• Offer personalized guidance and introduce tailored materials to support each child’s developmental stage.
• Design teacher-made materials to enhance learning experiences in the classroom.
• Observe and assess developmental milestones, maintaining records to share with parents and staff.

Classroom Management

• Create a respectful, harmonious classroom that encourages community and positive behavior.
• Establish clear expectations and apply positive discipline strategies.

Parent Engagement

• Maintain regular communication with parents, sharing developmental updates and guidance.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and plan classroom events.

Collaboration and Professionalism

• Mentor assistant teachers and collaborate with staff on planning and curriculum implementation.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school events like open houses and fundraising (some evenings required).
• Adhere to deadlines and ensure compliance with company policies and procedures outlined in the employee handbook.

Safety and Hygiene

• Maintain a clean and organized classroom, adhering to health and safety standards.
• Clean and sterilize equipment and materials daily, and securely store cleaning supplies.
• Support toddlers through diaper changes and potty training with patience and care.

Qualifications Language Skills

• Fluent in Portuguese (required)
• English proficiency (preferred)

Education

• Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education (Birth to Second Grade) or a related field (required)
• Birth to Three Montessori certification (preferred)
• NYS Teacher Certification (a plus)

Experience

• Experience in teaching in an early childhood setting (preferred)
• Familiarity with Montessori principles (preferred)

Additional Requirements

• Must start the Infant/Toddler or Early Childhood AMI, MACTE, or AMS Montessori Credential within one year.
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Must pass a full background check, fingerprinting, and medical clearance.

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Commute Assistance
• Bonuses

Compensation: $24.00 - $42.00 per hour