Lead Preschool Teacher

Messiah Christian Preschool (“MCP”) is an extension of the Ministry of the Congregational Church of the Messiah, whose Mission is to exalt God, equip believers, and evangelize the community.

Our program seeks to support its children’s growth physically, cognitively, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Working with family and the local Church, we provide a foundation of Christian faith upon which they can build as they live with integrity, pursue excellence, and reflect the love and truth of Jesus Christ in all they do.

Position Summary: MCP is in search of a skilled and nurturing educator to develop and bolster its learning program, enrich developmentally appropriate curriculum and practices, successfully meet the needs of a diverse class of children, and lead and coach its teaching team to new heights. The Lead Preschool Teacher will supervise and lead staffing and management of a class of up to 35 children ages 2 through 5 years in various activities (e.g. snack time, group or individual play, clean up, etc.), providing a safe, positive, and engaging early education environment that supports Messiah Christian Preschool’s values.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong early child development/early childhood education background and display a visibly nurturing love for children. He or she will be a proven team player and leader who shows compassion, maturity, patience, expertise, professionalism, and adaptability. The Lead Teacher will report directly to and be supervised by the Program Director. This is a full-time, on-site position.

Responsibilities:

• Design, plan, and implement curriculum in response to student interest and seasonal themes, and in alignment with Messiah Christian Preschool values and goals.
• Engage children in their learning experience, supporting them as they meet developmental and learning goals.
• Direct children through the routines of the day, proactively anticipating needs and asking questions, delegating teaching staff as needed.
• Inspect and maintain indoor and outdoor spaces daily for safety and cleanliness.
• Maintain each child’s observations, progress reports, and developmental progress. Document activities for family sharing.
• Collaborate in meetings for reflection/discussion about child and group progress, developing curriculum as needed, documenting child progress, and program event planning throughout the calendar year.
• Attend all required school-wide events as well as staff meetings, orientation, and training.
• Develop positive and professional relationships with parents and relatives of the preschool children.
• Assist in maintaining licensing and Messiah Christian Program standards.
• Other duties as needed.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Demonstrate the character qualities of enthusiasm, courtesy, flexibility, integrity, gratitude, kindness, self-control, perseverance, and punctuality.
• Develop and maintain rapport with students, parents, and staff by treating others with friendliness, dignity, and consideration.
• Represent the school in a favorable and professional manner to the constituency and the general public.
• Excellent organizational skills and diligence
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• The ability to multitask and prioritize activities.

Education and Experience:

• College degree (AA or BA) in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or related field (required)
• A minimum of 24 units in Early Childhood Education/ Early Child Development classes (required)
• 2 or more years' professional teaching experience in early childhood development at a child care center (required)
• 1 or more years' lead teaching experience (preferred)
• Child Development Teacher Permit (preferred)
• Experience teaching Christian education (preferred)
• CPR/First Aid AED Certification (preferred)

Personal Characteristics:

• Dependable, trustworthy, and prompt.
• Professionally conducts business.
• Adapts positively to change.
• Accepts constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement.
• Demonstrates initiative and enthusiasm.
• Maintains a neat and appropriate appearance.
• Demonstrates a professional code of Christian ethics.
• Provides an example of spiritual leadership to all internal and external constituents.
• Demonstrates a Christ-centered love for children and the importance of Christian education in holistic development.
• Adheres to Biblical standards of conduct, attesting to and reflecting a Christian testimony.
• Proclaims they are a Christian who knows Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

Physical, Mental, and Visual Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age.
• Able to lift, bend, grasp, reach, and lift up to 40 lbs.
• Able to maintain confidentiality, work in a busy environment, learn, and retain information.
• Ability to support children from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Possesses a genuine commitment to Christian service. Has initiative and creativity, is highly productive, and is flexible.
• Agrees with the school's statement of faith and the purpose and goals of MCP in providing an integrated Christian education.

Technology:

• Documentation through tablet application and digital camera.
• Basic computer skills.
• Experience using Procare (preferred).

Compensation:

Hourly compensation is competitive and may vary based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. In addition to competitive salary, MCP offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and retirement for eligible employees.

Messiah Christian Preschool will conduct a background check on all final candidates, and require school transcripts, health screening, TB screening, and proof of vaccination for measles and pertussis prior to employment.