Play Based Associate Preschool Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

We are looking for an Associate Teacher who can support our lead teacher in an Early Learner classroom that serves children 2.5-3.5 from 9am-1230am. This position is Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Washington Park Early Learning Center is a cooperative preschool rooted in play-based, developmentally appropriate practice. We believe young children learn best through hands-on exploration, meaningful relationships, and thoughtfully prepared environments. Our teachers are reflective practitioners who value collaboration, inclusion, and strong partnerships with families.

The Associate Teacher works in close collaboration with the Lead Teacher to cultivate a nurturing, engaging classroom for children ages 2.5–3.5 years.

This role includes:

• Supporting a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum
• Observing and documenting children’s growth and emerging skills
• Facilitating social-emotional learning and cooperative play
• Encouraging curiosity and higher-level thinking through conversation and open-ended exploration
• Assisting with preparation and organization of classroom materials

The Associate Teacher plays a vital role in maintaining a calm, responsive classroom culture where children feel safe, capable, and known.

Preferred Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree with an education focus (preferred, but not required)
• Familiarity with cooperative preschool philosophy
• Comfort working within a parent-participation model
• Strong communication skills with both children and adults
• Energetic, warm, and collaborative demeanor
• Interest in being part of an inclusive, reflective, and dynamic school community

Paid Leave

Employees are eligible for hours of combined paid personal and sick leave in accordance with Colorado law, including the Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA). Up to 48 hours may be carried over to the following year.

Professional Development

WPELC values ongoing professional growth. Associate Teachers receive:

• Annual professional development funds for conferences and external training
• Additional professional development opportunities provided by WPELC leadership throughout the school year