UPK Teacher

The Learning Experience•Centereach, NY

61d•$20 - $26

About The Position

The UPK Teacher will be responsible for planning, implementing, and assessing a developmentally appropriate curriculum for young children. This role requires creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment where children can thrive and develop the skills they need for kindergarten and beyond. The teacher will also work closely with families and staff to ensure the success and well-being of each child.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
Initial state certification required
Prior experience working with young children in an educational setting (e.g., daycare, preschool, or early childhood education).
Strong understanding of early childhood development and educational best practices.
Ability to develop and implement effective, creative teaching strategies.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Patience, creativity, and adaptability.
Ability to work well with children, parents, and colleagues.

Nice To Haves

Experience with the specific age group (3-5 years old) preferred.

Responsibilities

Curriculum Development & Instruction:
Develop and implement a curriculum that aligns with state and district standards for early childhood education.
Focus on the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of children.
Incorporate hands-on activities that promote language skills, literacy, numeracy, and creativity.
Provide structured and free-choice activities, including art, music, outdoor play, and group projects.
Ensure that classroom activities are developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant.
Classroom Management:
Create a positive and respectful classroom atmosphere where all children feel safe and valued.
Establish clear expectations for behavior and create a system for promoting positive behaviors.
Use appropriate classroom management techniques to ensure a calm, well-organized, and engaging classroom environment.
Assessment and Documentation:
Conduct ongoing observations of each child's development and progress.
Maintain accurate records of student growth, including portfolios, progress reports, and formal assessments.
Use assessment data to inform instruction and communicate effectively with parents and staff about student development.
Parent and Family Engagement:
Establish positive, open lines of communication with parents and guardians.
Provide regular updates on student progress through conferences, newsletters, and phone calls.
Involve families in school activities and encourage their participation in the educational process.
Collaboration with Staff:
Collaborate with other teachers, assistants, and staff to create an effective learning environment.
Participate in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and team planning sessions.
Health, Safety, and Welfare:
Ensure the safety and well-being of all children in the classroom.
Follow safety and emergency procedures.
Ensure that the classroom is clean, organized, and conducive to learning.
Professional Development:
Stay current with trends in early childhood education and state/federal regulations.
Attend workshops, conferences, and continuing education to improve teaching skills.
Special Needs Support:
Identify children with developmental delays or special needs and work with support staff to accommodate and support them in the classroom.
Develop and implement individualized learning plans (ILPs) when needed.