Teacher

Early Connections Learning Centers•Colorado Springs, CO

11d•$19 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

Early Connections Learning Centers is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high quality early care and education for ALL children. Every position works in coordination to achieve this mission. Since 1897, our work to provide high quality early childhood education has positively impacted thousands of children and families in the Pikes Peak region. Our nationally accredited programs help build a strong foundation for young children to be happy and successful in learning and life. We are hiring for our new Alice Bemis Taylor center, a project heavily supported by the community that expands access to high-quality education, establishes a professional development hub for early educators, and creates lasting opportunities for children and families in our community.

Requirements

Is Early Childhood Teacher qualified and meets Colorado minimum Rules and Regulations for Teachers.
Documented experience teaching in the Early Childhood Education field working with children (birth to age six)
Demonstrated passion for working with children and a strong professional foundation in the principles, theories, and best practices of early childhood education, including care for infants through school-age youth
Prior to employment, candidates must pass federal and state criminal and Colorado Department of Early Childhood background checks, pre-employment drug screen, physical, and verification of employment, education and/or credentials and, by position, valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Additional coursework may be required based on classroom assignment.

Responsibilities

Create a joyful, engaging classroom where every child feels known, valued, and inspired to explore.
Plan and implement meaningful learning experiences that support each child’s growth across all developmental domains.
Model excellence in early education practice by integrating play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Teaching Strategies GOLD, Colorado Early Learning Guidelines, and NAEYC standards.
Collaborate with the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing engaging, developmentally appropriate learning activities that encourage exploration, creativity, and growth across all areas of development.
Assume full classroom responsibility in the Lead Teacher’s absence, providing consistency and care for children and families.
Maintain indoor and outdoor spaces that are clean, safe, and inviting, ensuring compliance with CDHS Licensing, Health and Safety standards, USDA food and sanitization requirements, and the NAEYC Cleaning and Sanitation Table.
Foster a classroom culture that values and celebrates each child’s identity, background, and abilities—embracing diversity in all forms including culture, family structure, language, and individual needs.
Build positive relationships with parents and caregivers through open communication, family events, and parent-teacher conferences.
Collaborate with families to share progress and strategies for supporting children’s growth and school readiness.
Accurately complete documentation such as attendance, meal records, and assessment data (Teaching Strategies GOLD), incorporating family input to inform individualized learning goals.
Request, prepare, and maintain classroom materials to ensure they are adequate, appropriate, and safe.
Adhere to CACFP and other health regulations that protect children’s well-being.
Demonstrate understanding of early childhood development principles, applying them with compassion and creativity.
Stay current with training and program expectations to ensure compliance with Early Connections, CDHS, and NAEYC standards.
Build warm, respectful relationships with children and families while maintaining professional boundaries.
Communicate and collaborate with colleagues, specialists, and community partners to support children’s needs and classroom goals.
Maintain confidentiality and discretion in all matters related to children, families, and staff.
Represent Early Connections with professionalism—showing positivity, reliability, and pride in the important work of early education.

Benefits

At least 30 paid days off offered in first full year of employment
Paid Family Medical Leave for qualifying individuals – this benefit does not provide 100% wage replacement
Medical insurance – ECLC pays up to 75% of employee premium
Dental and Vision insurance
Free Employee Assistance Program
Substantial discount for childcare: employees pay $25/week for children ages 3+ who are enrolled at Early Connections Learning Centers
Tuition reimbursement of $150 per 3-credit hour course is available to staff enrolled in approved coursework in Early Childhood Education or related to their position and who maintain the required grade point average.
Reimbursement may be available for pre-approved, job-related certificate programs
100% employer-paid Basic Term Life and AD&D Insurance
Voluntary Short Term Disability Insurance