Early Childhood Educator The EC Educator provides leadership within the classroom to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment grounded in a Reggio Emiliainspired philosophy. This role is responsible for curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, documentation of childrens learning, and fostering strong relationships with families. The EC Educator serves as a facilitator of child-led inquiry and a collaborative partner to colleagues while advancing the mission and values of Urban Sprouts. This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy.
Compensation & Benefits: Pay Range: $19 - $24 per hour (USD), Salary commensurate with experience and education.
Our generous benefits include:
- Eligibility to participate in our Teacher Housing program
- Medical Health Insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary
- Dental & Vision insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary
- Free snacks and beverages
- Free CPR/First Aid training as well as other trainings throughout the year
- 2 Paid Mental Health Days a year
- All Federal Holidays Paid, to include Juneteenth and MLK day
- Special Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel)
- 403 B (comparable to 401K) retirement plan
Paid Time Off (PTO): - 5 weeks of PTO starting at year one
- 7 weeks after 2 years
- 8 weeks after 5 years
*This total PTO includes several pre-scheduled breaks throughout the year:
- 1 week Spring Break (March)
- 2 weeks Winter Break (December/January)
- 1 week Summer Break (July)
*Flexible PTO for personal use:
- 1 week in your first year (starts after first 30 days)
- 2 weeks after your second year
- 3 weeks after your third year
Key Responsibilities Daily Classroom Operations ? Maintain at all times high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the schools philosophy and curriculum approach. ? Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects childrens interests and supports inquiry-based learning. ? Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns. ? Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage. ? Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community. ? Support and lead with Co- Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom. ? Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements.
Curriculum and Documentation ? Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. ? Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible. ? Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend childrens thinking and inquiry. ? Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences. ? Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms. ? Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice.
Family and Child Engagement ? Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families. ? Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of childrens growth and development. ? Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives. ? Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices. ? Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise.
Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities ? Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team. ? Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement. ? Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, training, and school events. ? Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication. ? Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards. ? Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program.
Garden to Table Integration ? Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate. ? Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects. ? Support childrens participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance.
Qualifications ? Associates or Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. ? Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting. ? Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role. ? Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning. ? Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills. ? Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.
Core Competencies and Expectations ? Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture. ? Builds meaningful relationships with children and families. ? Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times. ? Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively. ? Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts. ? Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.
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Compensation details: 19-24 Hourly Wage
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