Preschool Teacher

Gurnee Park District•Gurnee, IL

22d•$18 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction and supervision of the Youth Program Manager, the Preschool Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children. The Preschool Teacher plans and implements engaging lessons that follow the State of Illinois Early Learning Standards for Preschool along with maintaining good communication with parents, excellent rapport with children, supervision of children, classroom leadership, management, organization and curriculum planning.

Requirements

Minimum 18 years or older
Coursework or degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred
Knowledge of early childhood milestones
Strong classroom management and organizational skills
Ability to develop and implement engaging age-appropriate curriculum
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
Ability to establish positive relationships with children, parents and coworkers
CPR, First Aid and AED certification is required or ability to obtain within four weeks
The ability to instruct children 2 ½ - 5 years
Plan age-appropriate lessons
Maintain 8 hours of continuing education annually
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to pass all required background checks

Responsibilities

Plan, prepare and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities using the State of Illinois Early Learning Standards for Preschool
Create a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment that encourages exploration, creativity and independence
Instruct students within an 8:1 or 10:1 ratio in a classroom setting and outdoors
Supervise students at all times including outdoors at recess, ensuring their health, safety and well-being
Use positive behavior guidance techniques to support children’s social and emotional growth
Foster positive relationships with children, families and staff through open, respectful and professional communication
Conduct ongoing observations and assessments of children’s development and maintain accurate records as required
Prepare the classroom, learning centers, and materials to support engaging educational experiences
Work cooperatively with co-teacher, other team members, and supervisors as a team
Collaborate with supervisors and fellow staff members to ensure high-quality programming
Communicate regularly with parents regarding classroom activities, student progress and any other concerns
Provide high quality customer service which includes greeting the children and parents daily
Attend all staff meetings and trainings
Attend 8 hours of continuing education training annually
Follow all park district policies and procedures
Attend all preschool functions (i.e. open house, meet the teachers, parent/teacher conference, concerts, graduations, year-end event etc.)
Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of classroom, hallway and workroom
Perform related work as required by the Manager and/or Coordinator
Perform other duties as assigned by the Youth Program Manager