First Steps 4k Co-Teacher

About This Role

We're seeking a SC First Steps 4K Co-Teacher to join our early childhood education team!

Our ideal candidate enjoys working with young children, understands the importance of early childhood education, and is committed to creating a positive, structured, and engaging learning environment.

The 4K Co-Teacher works collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to implement developmentally appropriate educational activities, support classroom management, encourage positive behaviors, and prepare students academically, socially, and emotionally for kindergarten.

This position requires someone who is proactive, patient, organized, flexible, and willing to take initiative while maintaining the high-quality standards

What You'll Do

Key Responsibilities

• Classroom Instruction & Curriculum Support

• Assist the Lead Teacher with implementing the approved SC First Steps 4K curriculum and daily lesson plans.

• Support age-appropriate activities that promote literacy, mathematics, science, creative arts, and social-emotional development.

• Work with students individually and in small groups to reinforce learning objectives.

• Assist with classroom learning centers, hands-on activities, and educational experiences.

• Encourage student participation, independence, problem-solving, and kindergarten readiness.

• Support the Lead Teacher with classroom observations, developmental assessments, and documentation of student progress.

• Classroom Management & Student Engagement

• Help establish and maintain consistent classroom routines, expectations, and transitions.

• Use positive language, encouragement, redirection, and developmentally appropriate behavior guidance.

• Actively engage with students throughout the day rather than simply supervising.

• Encourage positive peer interactions, communication, independence, and conflict-resolution skills.

• Provide additional assistance to children who may need individualized learning or behavioral support.

• Help maintain an organized, welcoming, safe, and stimulating classroom environment.

• Collaboration & Teamwork

• Work cooperatively with the Lead Teacher to ensure smooth daily classroom operations.

• Communicate effectively regarding classroom needs, student progress, behaviors, and concerns.

• Take initiative in preparing instructional materials, organizing centers, and assisting with classroom activities.

• Follow the Lead Teacher's instructional direction while independently completing assigned responsibilities.

• Participate in classroom planning, staff meetings, professional development, and mandatory training.

• Assist with classroom coverage and other reasonable duties as assigned by administration.

• Health, Safety & Licensing Compliance

• Maintain active supervision of children at all times, including during classroom activities, meals, restroom breaks, transitions, and outdoor play.

• Follow SC DSS Child Care Licensing regulations, required staff-to-child ratios, and supervision procedures.

• Assist with maintaining classroom cleanliness, sanitation, and daily health and safety practices.

• Follow CACFP meal service procedures and documentation requirements when applicable.

• Promptly report accidents, incidents, injuries, behavioral concerns, and safety issues to administration.

• Maintain student confidentiality and professional boundaries.

• Support compliance with SC First Steps 4K program expectations and quality improvement standards.

• Parent Communication & Professionalism

• Build positive, respectful relationships with students, families, and coworkers.

• Assist the Lead Teacher with communicating classroom activities, student accomplishments, and developmental progress.

• Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and a positive attitude.

• Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, accountability, and a strong work ethic.

• Represent Kinder Joy Learning Academy professionally at all times.

Requirements

The educator for this position must have proficient knowledge in the following areas:

Child development practices.

Safe and developmentally appropriate activities for children.

Follow and implement Policies and procedures to ensure that children are always supervised and safe

The educator for this position must demonstrate the following skills

Team building

Supervisory

Analytical and problem solving

Decision making

Effective verbal and listening communications

Stress management

Time management

The educator must also demonstrate the following personal attributes:

Be respectful

Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity

Be flexible

Demonstrate sound work ethics

Be consistent and fair

Be compassionate and understanding

Be able to build esteem while ensuring a safe and secure environment

Applicant must have at minimum a CDA or be willing to obtain a CDA within 1 yr of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Associates or Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education.
• At least six months experience working in a licensed childcare facility

Benefits

• Paid Leave
• Sick Leave
• Tuition Assistance
• Child Care Discount
• Professional Development
• Flexible Schedule
• Paid Holidays