Preschool Creative Movement Instructor

Merritt Academy•Fairfax, VA

2d•$14 - $18

About The Position

Merritt Academy is seeking a Preschool Creative Movement Instructor passionate about teaching and working with children. The instructor creates developmentally appropriate creative movement curricula in a loving and safe environment and prepares and teaches classes for toddlers through 3-year-old students. The role includes managing the classroom and performing professional duties in a manner that reflects the school's standards of courtesy and values. The position is part-time, scheduled from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM four days a week. Additional hours may be available as an Assistant Teacher in a classroom. Candidates should be flexible about assigned tasks and working with different age groups, and demonstrate professionalism, initiative, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to supporting parents as partners in education.

Requirements

A love for children and a strong desire to make a difference every day.
High school diploma.
Experience teaching or working with preschool-age children, preferably in a classroom, dance, music, recreation, or movement program.
Training or demonstrated skills in creative movement, dance, physical education, or a related field.
Understanding of early childhood development and age-appropriate expectations for attention, coordination, and participation.
Ability to plan engaging lessons using music, rhythm, storytelling, imaginative play, and movement.
Positive classroom management skills, including giving simple directions, guiding transitions, and encouraging participation without pressure.
Ability to lift and carry at least 45 pounds, engage in physical activity with children, and work indoors or outdoors.
Ability to move and interact constantly with children, and to alternate often between sitting and standing.
Ability to maintain sight and sound of the children at all times.
CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification.
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Ability to pass required pre-employment screenings and trainings.
Professionalism, pride in work, initiative, a strong work ethic, and willingness to support parents as partners in education.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor's coursework or a degree in early childhood education, dance, physical education, music, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Create developmentally appropriate creative movement curricula in a loving and safe environment.
Prepare and instruct classes for toddlers through 3-year-old students.
Manage the classroom and guide transitions and participation.
Use music, rhythm, storytelling, imaginative play, and movement to develop children's balance, coordination, body awareness, and creativity.
Maintain sight and sound of the children at all times.
Perform professional tasks in accordance with the school's standards of courtesy and values.
Be flexible in taking assigned tasks and working with various age groups.