Childcare Teacher Associate

Heartworks Early Education • Essex Junction, VT

24d • Onsite

About The Position

Babilou Family US, part of the global Babilou Family network, offers a local, community-focused approach to early childhood education through its Little Sprouts, Building Blocks, and Heartworks schools. They are seeking a proactive and collaborative Teacher Associate to support their mission. In this role, you will lead the creation of a safe, nurturing, and sustainable learning environment that fosters children's curiosity, confidence, and responsibility. You will design and implement high-quality curriculum, guide the teaching team, and model sustainable education practices. This position is ideal for an educator committed to developmentally appropriate practice, environmental stewardship, and strong partnerships with children, families, and colleagues. The role is guided by their educational approach, Sustainable Education®, which connects research to daily practice to help children thrive and build a foundation for lifelong learning. Their work is rooted in research about how young minds grow, learn, connect, and build lifelong skills. They also operate under HONOR values: Humility, Open-Mindedness, Nurture, Ownership, and Recognition, creating an environment where everyone feels valued, empowered, and inspired. This location operates year-round, Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM-6:00 PM.

Requirements

• At least twenty (20) years of age
• High school graduate or completed a GED
• At least a Vermont Early Childhood Career Ladder Level Three (3) Certificate; OR
• At least an associate degree from an accredited college with a major or concentration in Early Childhood, Child or Human Development, Elementary Education, or Child and Family Services and at least twelve (12) months experience working with groups of children from grade three (3) or younger; OR
• At least a Certificate of Completion from the Registered Child Care Apprenticeship Program; OR
• At least a Child Care Certificate from the Community College of Vermont and at least twelve (12) months experience working with groups of children from grade three (3) or younger; OR
• At least successful completion of twenty-one (21) college credits with an early childhood or school age focus and at least twelve (12) months experience working with groups of children from grade three (3) or younger.
• All employees must complete a background check as required by the Department of Early Education and Care.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement daily lesson plans and learning experiences aligned with developmentally appropriate practice and sustainable education principles.
• Lead classroom organization and routines that promote environmental responsibility, mindful material use, and stewardship habits.
• Model best practices for the teaching team and ensure high-quality instructional delivery.
• Supervise children during learning activities, meals, transitions, and outdoor exploration that fosters connection to nature and hands-on learning.
• Serve as a Mandated Reporter in accordance with state law, maintaining full responsibility to recognize, document, and immediately report any suspected child abuse, neglect, or endangerment.
• Support each child’s developmental needs, using observation and documentation to guide instruction and promote holistic growth.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with families through consistent, professional, and sustainability-minded communication practices.
• Lead or participate in conferences, family events, and community learning opportunities that strengthen family involvement.
• Maintain all required certifications and participate in ongoing training, including sustainability-focused professional learning.
• Collaborate with colleagues to strengthen classroom systems, curriculum implementation, and the school’s sustainability initiatives.
• Coach and support Assistant Teachers in instructional practices and environmentally responsible classroom routines.

Benefits

• Up to 50% childcare tuition discount
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, effective on your first day of employment
• Free First Stop Health membership, providing 24/7 access to virtual primary care, urgent care, and short-term mental health support
• 401(k) retirement plan with annual discretionary employer match contribution
• Optional life insurance and short/long-term disability coverage
• Performance-based pay, including increases tied to certification and/or degree completion
• Career growth and professional development opportunities, including training, mentorship, and our dedicated CHILD Conference
• Generous paid time off and holiday benefits, including an annual Winter Break closure between Christmas and New Year's
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offering confidential resources and support for mental health, financial wellness, work-life balance, and other personal needs
• Employee referral bonus program
• Tuition and professional development reimbursement
• Pet insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree