Childcare Teacher

Job Summary

The school age Child Care Teacher plays a key role in creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging before- and after-school environment for elementary-age children. This position supports the Site Director in the daily operation of the program by actively engaging with children, planning enriching activities, and ensuring a positive experience for children of all abilities. The Lead Teacher serves as a role model, supports inclusion efforts, and steps into a leadership role when the Site Director is unavailable.

Essential Job Functions

The Child Care Teacher will:

• Create a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment where all children feel valued and included
• Actively engage with children by participating in activities, conversations, and play
• Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being
• Plan and lead developmentally appropriate monthly activities, including crafts, group games, and team-building experiences, for small and large groups
• Collaborate with the Site Director, parents, coordinators, and staff to communicate children's progress, needs, and areas of concern in a respectful and professional manner
• Review and implement accommodation plans for children with special needs, following guidance from inclusion staff and leadership
• Maintain clean, organized, and inviting program spaces and materials
• Uphold all state licensing regulations and departmental policies
• Foster a positive, respectful, and multicultural environment while guiding behavior and participation
• Serve as acting Site Director when the Site Director is absent
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions
• Assist with planning and supporting special events sponsored by the division
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Site Director, Recreation Specialist, or Program Coordinator

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Experience working or volunteering with children in a licensed childcare, recreation, or formal care setting
• Completion of the 90-hour Child Growth and Development and School Age Curriculum training (MSDE School Age Lead Teacher) or possession of a valid teaching license

Experience Levels:

• Level I (Entry Level): MSDE School Age Teacher qualified
• Level II: Valid teaching certification plus two (2) years of experience in an approved setting
• Level III: Valid teaching certification plus five (5) or more years of experience in an approved setting

For All Levels:

• Must be at least 19 years old
• Must have reliable transportation to various sites in the city

Licenses and Certifications:

• Current CPR and First Aid certification
• Medication Administration certification through MSDE (required upon hire)
• Completion and maintenance of all MSDE-required trainings, including but not limited to:

• Basic Health and Safety
• COVID-19 Training
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Training
• 9-hour Communication Training or one college-level course for credit
• 12 hours of annual professional development

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Judgment and Decision-Making: Ability to assess situations thoughtfully, apply licensing regulations appropriately, and make sound decisions
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build positive, professional relationships with children, families, coworkers, and community partners
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills with children, staff, and families; ability to lead and engage large groups
• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to identifying challenges and implementing effective solutions
• Flexibility: Willingness to adapt schedules and responsibilities as program needs change

Additional Requirements:

• Successful completion of a background investigation, including federal, state, and local criminal history checks, sex offender registry check, and Child Protective Services clearance
• Must not have a founded child abuse or neglect complaint
• Submission of an Office of Child Care Medical Report prior to the first day of work and every five (5) years thereafter
• Maintenance of current CPR and First Aid certification at all times

Employment Conditions

Physical Requirements: This position requires regular physical activity, including standing, walking, running, sitting, reaching, bending, kneeling, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Employees must be able to communicate clearly, respond to emergency situations, and work both indoors and outdoors. Need vision and hearing sufficient to supervise children and respond to alarms and safety needs are required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The City of Annapolis Government does not discriminate or retaliate in employment against any person seeking employment or employed in the civil service because of any consideration of political or religious affiliation or belief, race, color, sex, age, family status, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

This position is not eligible for benefits.