Preschool Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

Description

Morris Plains Co-op is looking for caring, creative, and enthusiastic teacher to fill a part-time preschool teacher position for 2026-2027.

The position is for a 2 Morning Class for children ages 2.5 - 3 years old which meets Thursdays and Fridays from 9am-12pm, for a total of 7 hours a week. Additional hours may be available as a classroom aide for candidates interested in expanding their time in the program.

As a cooperative school, we are seeking a teacher committed to both developing a can-do attitude in children while engaging them in inquiry-based studies and to providing co-oping adults with support in the classroom. The Co-op values our family relationships and teachers are welcome to enroll their own children in the program, space permitting, at a discounted rate.

Intro

As a private, cooperative preschool, Morris Plains Co-op is committed to providing a play-based, developmentally appropriate, content-rich program for children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old. Our co-op model provides a unique learning experience for children and gives parents the opportunity to work in the classroom with teachers while making a valuable contribution to the school. Our school’s philosophy is based on a flexible approach to early education, a positive approach to discipline, a commitment to parent education, and the belief that children learn best through play. The teacher supports this mission by creating a child-centered classroom environment, utilizing The Creative Curriculum as a framework for meaningful, hands-on explorations and language-rich interactions within the classroom interest areas.

Morris Plains Co-op Play School is committed to building an inclusive and welcoming community. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply, and we value the diverse perspectives that strengthen our school and enrich the experiences of the children and families we serve.

What You'll Do

• Implement Creative Curriculum studies by developing classroom activities and weekly lesson plans that allow for developmentally appropriate, play-based learning in all developmental areas (cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development).
• Plan a variety of first-hand experiences that will enhance and encourage children’s independence and self-help abilities.
• Establish a predictable but flexible schedule and environment that allows children a balance of active and quiet play, provides smooth transitions between activities, and follows best-practice guidelines including incorporation of the New Jersey State Early Learning and Development Guidelines.
• Maintain communications with parents through informal discussions, weekly emails, and parent-teacher conferences.
• Take responsibility for organizing, setting up, and putting away materials and resources for the children’s activities before and after class.
• Follow a personal professional development plan to ensure continuous quality improvement and training.

Requirements

• Complete required background checks, including CARI and CHRI
• Complete physical examination, including TB screening

• Teaching: 1 year (Required)
• Childcare: 1 year (Required)
• CDA or Associates or BA Degree in Early Childhood Education

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of the Creative Curriculum
• CPR and First Aid certified

Benefits

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

About Us

Morris Plains Cooperative Play School is a nonprofit cooperative preschool located in Morris Plains, New Jersey. Since 1939, The Co-op has provided an exceptional educational environment where children, parents, and teachers learn and grow together while families actively participate in their child’s preschool education.