Preschool Closing Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

At The Midwest Playhouse Learning Center , we believe childhood should be filled with wonder, learning, laughter, and God's love. We are looking for educators who are passionate about making a lasting impact in the lives of children while partnering with families to prepare each child for kindergarten—and for life.

Job Summary
The Closing Teacher is responsible for providing exceptional care to children during the afternoon and evening hours while ensuring the Learning Center is clean, organized, secure, and ready for the following day. This position serves as the final representative of The Midwest Playhouse each day, creating a positive experience for children and families during pick-up while maintaining licensing standards and center closing procedures.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for all children.
• Maintain active supervision indoors and outdoors.
• Assist with afternoon learning activities, centers, and outdoor play.
• Follow classroom schedules and routines.
• Support children's social-emotional development using positive guidance techniques.
• Maintain licensing ratios throughout the afternoon.

Family Engagement
As the final staff member many families interact with each day, the Closing Teacher will:

• Greet every family warmly during pick-up.
• Share highlights from each child's day.
• Communicate professionally and positively with parents.
• Notify leadership of any concerns before families arrive whenever possible.
• Represent The Midwest Playhouse with kindness, professionalism, and excellent customer service.

Playground Documentation
Ensure all daily documentation is completed before children leave, including:

• Photos and videos uploaded
• Meals and snacks documented
• Nap/rest documentation completed
• Daily notes finalized
• Diaper changes and potty records completed
• Incident reports completed when necessary

Closing Responsibilities
The Closing Teacher is responsible for ensuring the center is prepared for the next business day.

• Sanitize toys and frequently touched surfaces.
• Sweep and mop classroom floors.
• Take out classroom trash.
• Disinfect tables and chairs.
• Restock classroom supplies.
• Prepare classroom materials for the following day.
• Turn off classroom lights and electronics.
• Close classroom windows and blinds if applicable.

Kitchen Closing

• Wash and sanitize dishes.
• Clean countertops and sinks.
• Empty trash.
• Sweep and mop kitchen floor.
• Ensure food is properly stored.
• Verify refrigerator and freezer doors are closed securely.

Center Closing Checklist

• Complete daily cleaning checklist.
• Ensure all children have been signed out.
• Confirm all classrooms are empty.
• Turn off unnecessary lights.
• Secure confidential paperwork.
• Lock classroom doors as required.
• Arm security system (if assigned).
• Ensure all exterior doors are locked before leaving.
• Report maintenance or safety concerns to the Director.

Licensing & Safety

• Follow all Missouri childcare licensing regulations.
• Maintain active supervision until the final child departs.
• Never leave until all children have been picked up and the building is secure.
• Report accidents, injuries, and unusual incidents immediately.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.

Team Responsibilities

• Assist other classrooms as ratios change throughout the afternoon.
• Float between classrooms as directed by leadership.
• Help coworkers complete closing responsibilities.
• Maintain a positive, team-first attitude.
• Be flexible based on daily staffing and enrollment needs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Experience working in childcare or early childhood education
• CPR & First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Reliable transportation
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and complete closing duties without direct supervision

Every Closing Teacher is expected to model the values of The Midwest Playhouse Learning Center by:

• Putting children's safety and well-being first.
• Treating every child with patience, kindness, and respect.
• Supporting fellow team members with a servant's heart.
• Maintaining a clean, welcoming, Christ-centered environment.
• Ending each day with excellence so every family leaves feeling cared for and every classroom is ready for a successful tomorrow.