Preschool Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

At Sewanee Children’s Center (SCC), we are more than a school—we are a cooperative community where children, families, and educators learn, grow, and thrive together. We provide a safe, loving environment that is deeply sensitive to the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of our children. SCC serves families with children ranging from 6 weeks old through 5 years old in our infant/toddler and preschool programs, and Kindergarten - 3rd grade in our after school programs.

We believe that children learn best through play, exploration, and community. Our classrooms are designed to be laboratories of learning where teachers and children work together to foster an enthusiasm for discovery and life-long learning. Located in the beautiful mountain community of Sewanee, we embrace hands-on exploration, social-emotional growth, and a culture of inclusivity that celebrates the unique background and talents of every family.

• Cultivate Curiosity: Design and implement a developmentally appropriate, emergent curriculum that responds to the children's interests and prompts active discovery.
• Nurture the Whole Child: Support the social-emotional development of children ages 3 to 5, helping them navigate relationships, build empathy, and develop independence.
• Create an Inclusive Space: Foster a warm, welcoming, and organized classroom environment that reflects the diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds of our families.
• Partner with Families: Maintain transparent, positive communication with parents regarding daily activities, developmental milestones, and classroom highlights.
• Compliance and Best Practice: Work to ensure 100% compliance with TN Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing safety regulations.

• Qualifications: High school diploma required; a Child Development Associate (CDA), Associate's, or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (or a related field) is highly preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in a licensed childcare center or preschool setting.
• Heart for Education: A deep understanding of early childhood milestones, a commitment to personal growth, and a desire to provide “the best for the smallest.”
• Skills: Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a collaborative team-player mindset.
• Must be able to pass TN state-mandated background checks, meet DHS health requirements, and must be able complete online pre-service training and be willing to obtain CPR/First Aid training within 90 days of employment

• Child Development Associate (CDA), Associate's, or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (or a related field)
• Comfortable using Google Workspace apps such as Calendar, Documents, and Sheets

Eligibility for benefits is determined by employment status. Full-time staff members are eligible for:

• Retirement Plan
• Child Care Discount
• Professional Development
• Up to 72 Hours of Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Approximately 17 Paid Holidays (listed below):

Labor Day

Thanksgiving: Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday

President’s Day

Martin Luther King Jr Day

Good Friday

Fourth of July (Summer Camp employees only)

5 days during Winter Break

5 days at Spring Break

The Sewanee Children’s Center (SCC) offers a comprehensive early learning program for children ages six weeks through five years old. Additionally, SCC offers an after school program for children in kindergarten through third grade. All of our programs are designed to meet the developmental needs of each child, and are responsive to the needs of local families and children.

More information about our program and philosophy can be found on our website: