Job Summary

The Preschool Teacher reports directly to the Preschool Director and is responsible for the planning and supervision of the day-to-day activities of the preschool classroom, ensuring a nurturing and engaging learning environment that aligns with the preschool’s mission and curriculum.

Mission Statement

Bright Beginnings Preschool is guided by the philosophy of learning through play. Our teaching staff provides a wide variety of daily activities to expand and develop each child's physical, creative, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. We motivate children with positive reinforcement, age-appropriate toys, role models, and activities that help stimulate various areas of development. Daily activities encourage artistic expression, physical conditioning, and problem-solving skills.

Curriculum

Bright Beginnings Preschool curriculum follows weekly themes. The themes incorporate activities that are developmentally appropriate for all areas of a child's development: physical, emotional, social, and cognitive. Teachers provide age-appropriate activities using a variety of materials to reinforce the theme and promote holistic development.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise daily programs and activities that meet the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social needs of each child, while promoting development through play.
• Interact with children and encourage their involvement in age-appropriate, developmentally supportive activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized learning environment that aligns with the preschool’s philosophy of stimulating growth through positive reinforcement and play.
• Develop lesson plans based on the curriculum’s weekly themes, incorporating activities that are designed to support children’s holistic development.
• Ensure daily attendance records of all children enrolled.
• Prepare written reports and documentation as requested.
• Establish and maintain strong communication with parents, conducting parent orientations and parent-teacher conferences once a year.
• Provide a variety of age-appropriate activities and materials that support creative, cognitive, social, and physical growth.
• Observe, record, and report significant individual and group behaviors to ensure children’s needs are being met.
• Use positive discipline techniques that promote a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Attend staff meetings regularly and contribute to the overall goals of the preschool.
• Collaborate with the assistant to ensure necessary classroom materials are maintained and available in an organized manner.
• Arrive on time and uphold professionalism in attendance and punctuality.
• Partner with the assistant to create visually stimulating and thematic bulletin boards and hallway decorations that enhance the learning environment.
• Assist parents with resources and materials if a child requires special attention or additional support.
• Follow guidelines and policies set by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
• Maintain yearly certifications in CPR and First Aid and ensure all necessary medical and background reports are up to date.
• Complete 15 hours of in-service training annually to stay updated on best practices in early childhood education.

Psychological Considerations

• Foster positive working relationships with co-workers, children, families, and the public, maintaining open communication and collaboration.
• Interpret and communicate park district policies and procedures to participants, families, and the public in alignment with the preschool’s mission.

Physiological Considerations

• May involve occasional lifting of classroom supplies, equipment, and related materials.
• Participate in physical activities with children, including group games and outdoor play.

Environmental Considerations

• May be exposed to varying weather conditions and physical elements such as heat, rain, and fluctuating temperatures.
• Exposure to cleaning supplies and body fluids may occur.
• Tasks may require extended periods of standing, walking, and sitting.

Cognitive Considerations

• Must demonstrate sound judgment when interacting with the public and enforcing preschool policies.
• Ability to quickly and effectively respond to problems and emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children.

Marginal Functions

• Complete daily preparation work and assist in classroom setup as required.

• B.S., B.A. or A.A. degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education or related field preferred.
• Two or more years of early childhood or child care experience required.