Title: Preschool Lead Teacher

Department: Recreation

Job Summary: Under the general direction and supervision of the Recreation Supervisor, the Preschool Lead Teacher is responsible for the planning and organization of all aspects of the preschool classes they teach.

Qualifications: Have received a high school diploma, and has received a minimum of a 2 year degree in Early Childhood or related field with experience or has a vast amount of experience in the early childhood field.

Required Knowledge or Traits:

1. Have a basic knowledge of Park District policies concerning the preschool programming.
2. A sense of loyalty to the Park District and the preschool program.
3. Direct the classroom activities in a positive manner.
4. Ability to be flexible and adaptable to new situations.
5. Ability to maintain self-control and composure in difficult situations.
6. Ability to analyze situations and make sound decisions.
7. Ability to work harmoniously with all employees in all departments within the Park District.
8. Demonstrate a positive and cheerful attitude when working with the children and parents.
9. Ability to work with a good attitude towards coworkers.
10. Ability to be self-motivated to accomplish the preschool program goals and objectives.
11. Ability to accept the responsibility to be punctual and practice good attendance.
12. Ability to accept constructive criticism or supervision.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Set up the classroom before each class.
2. Clean up the classroom at the end of each class.
3. Assist in cleaning and straightening up early childhood room before and after each class.
4. Assist in record keeping.
5. Attendance Sheets
6. Each child’s informational sheet
7. Individual student records
8. Supplies inventory
9. Incident reports
10. Develop a weekly lesson plan to cover the following areas:
11. Gross and fine motor skills
12. Academics
13. Art and music projects
14. Free time
15. Language development
16. Socialization skills
17. Prepare daily routine for the students (free play, circle time, etc.).
18. Keep informed on current teaching trends and incorporate them into the program.
19. Attend preschool staff meetings.
20. Write and submit any correspondence that will need to be given out to parents (i.e. donations, newsletters, etc.).
21. Assist with maintaining supplies and equipment so they remain in a safe and workable condition.
22. Guide aides in areas which they require extra help.
23. Maintain an open parent/instructor relationship by instituting an open-door policy.
24. Immediately report any and all major incidents to the Recreation Supervisor.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

The instructor may feel pressure due to:

1. The responsibility of effective and efficient delivery of services.
2. The need to resolve situations and problems with the children, parents, and staff.
3. Multi-tasking and assistance needed by patrons and parents.

PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Lead Teachers will be exposed to many activities that may require, including but not limited to, prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, kneeling, squatting, walking, reaching, bending, and lifting 1-25 pounds.

COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS

1. Must be able to work independently.
2. Must be able to communicate verbally and in writing, following directions, and read and speak English.
3. Must possess time management and organizational skills to effectively perform all job responsibilities.
4. Must possess good problem-solving skills and have the capability to act rationally and calmly in emergency situations.
5. Must be able to represent the Park District of La Grange in a professional manner.
6. Must be able to make judgments with respect to confidentiality of information and problem solving.
7. Must exhibit good safety awareness and judgment in all aspects of the position.