Urgent* Preschool Teacher

POSITION SUMMARY

The Preschool Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum for children ages 3–4 in a nurturing and stimulating classroom environment. This position requires a passionate, patient, and professional educator who is committed to the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of young children. The Preschool Teacher works collaboratively with co-teachers, families, and program leadership to create a safe, inclusive, and enriching learning experience for every child.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred; CDA (Child Development Associate) credential accepted in lieu of degree with relevant experience

Minimum of 1–2 years of experience working with preschool-age children (ages 3–5) in a licensed childcare or preschool setting

DHR & ABI/FBI Background Check: Must successfully complete and maintain a clear background check prior to or upon hire

CPR & First Aid Certification: Must obtain and maintain current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification

Must complete all required training within 30 days of hire and meet ongoing annual training requirements

Must maintain compliance with all state licensing, DHR, and CACFP regulations throughout employment

Knowledge of Alabama DHR childcare licensing standards preferred

Knowledge of CACFP meal program guidelines a plus

Must be at least 18 years of age

Must pass a pre-employment health screening if required by state licensing

Reliable transportation required

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Curriculum Planning & Instruction

Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with early learning standards for children ages 3–4

Design weekly and monthly lesson plans incorporating literacy, math, science, social studies, art, music, and motor skills

Use a play-based, child-centered approach that supports exploration, creativity, and problem‑solving

Differentiate instruction to meet the individual learning needs, abilities, and interests of each child

Incorporate thematic units, circle time, small group activities, centers, read‑alouds, and outdoor learning

Submit completed lesson plans to the director in advance according to program timelines

Child Development & Observation

Observe, document, and assess each child's developmental progress across all domains (cognitive, language, social‑emotional, and physical)

Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date developmental portfolios and anecdotal records for each child

Identify children who may need additional support or services and communicate concerns to the director promptly

Support children in developing self‑regulation, social skills, and independence through positive guidance strategies

Foster each child's sense of self‑worth, belonging, and confidence

Classroom Management & Environment

Establish and maintain a safe, clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment

Set up and rotate engaging learning centers that promote hands‑on exploration and inquiry

Implement consistent, positive behavior guidance strategies; avoid punitive or harsh discipline

Maintain active supervision of all children at all times in accordance with required ratios

Ensure all classroom materials and equipment are safe, age‑appropriate, and in good condition

Maintain classroom cleanliness and assist with sanitization of surfaces, toys, and materials per health guidelines

Family Engagement & Communication

Build and maintain positive, respectful, and professional relationships with families

Provide regular communication to families regarding classroom activities, child progress, and upcoming events (newsletters, notes, apps, or conferences)

Conduct scheduled parent‑teacher conferences and be available for informal check‑ins

Welcome family involvement and engagement in classroom activities and program events

Maintain confidentiality regarding all child and family information at all times

Compliance, Documentation & Reporting

Follow all DHR, Health Department, and CACFP guidelines, policies, and procedures

Complete required daily attendance records, sign‑in/sign‑out logs, and incident/accident reports accurately and promptly

Complete meal counts and point‑of‑service documentation required for CACFP compliance

Maintain all required classroom records, inspection checklists, and compliance documentation

Participate in program assessments, licensing inspections, and accreditation processes as needed

Complete all required training and professional development hours annually and maintain documentation

Health, Safety & Nutrition

Conduct daily health checks upon children's arrival and report any health concerns to the director

Follow established emergency, evacuation, and lockdown procedures and participate in required drills

Administer first aid as needed; maintain current Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification

Follow proper handwashing and illness prevention procedures

Support CACFP meal service by supervising children during meals, modeling healthy eating habits, and maintaining required mealtime documentation

Report any suspected child abuse or neglect immediately to the director and appropriate authorities per mandated reporter requirements

Teamwork & Program Support

Work collaboratively with co‑teachers, assistant teachers, and program staff to ensure consistency and quality

Participate in staff meetings, in‑service trainings, and professional development activities

Support and mentor classroom assistants and volunteers

Communicate proactively with the director regarding classroom needs, concerns, and successes

Contribute positively to the overall culture and mission of the program

Perform other duties as assigned by the director

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS & WORK HABITS

Passion for Early Childhood: Demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for working with young children and a commitment to their growth and well‑being

Patient & Nurturing: Responds to children with warmth, empathy, and age‑appropriate expectations

Dependable: Consistently reliable in attendance, punctuality, and follow‑through on responsibilities

Punctual: Arrives on time, prepared, and ready to engage children at the start of each day

Self‑Starter: Takes initiative in classroom setup, planning, and problem‑solving without needing constant direction

Positive Attitude: Maintains a professional, solution‑focused, and upbeat presence that contributes to a positive work environment

Team Player: Works cooperatively and respectfully with all staff, families, and community partners

Adaptable: Flexible and responsive to changing classroom needs, schedules, and priorities

Detail‑Oriented: Accurate and thorough in documentation, record‑keeping, and compliance requirements

Professional Boundaries: Maintains appropriate professional relationships with children, families, and colleagues at all times

Growth‑Minded: Open to feedback, self‑reflection, and ongoing professional learning

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and sit on the floor for extended periods

Ability to lift and carry children or equipment up to 40 lbs

Ability to move quickly to respond to children's safety needs

Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions

Visual and auditory ability to monitor and respond to children's needs at all times

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or CDA

Experience with quality rating tools

Familiarity with curriculum development and implementation

Knowledge of CACFP

Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

IMPORTANT DETAILS

This is a new position. Our new hire will begin the last week of July, providing ample time to create lesson plans and organize their classroom.

Pay is based on education, experience, training, and certifications.

Schedule: M-F (6:45 am-3:45 pm)

Benefits: 2 weeks paid vacation (determined by the Center), 7 sick days per year, and your birthday off with pay!

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