Kindergarten Teacher @ Chicod

Position Overview

The Kindergarten Teacher is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and structured learning environment that promotes early childhood academic, social, emotional, and physical development. Operating in accordance with North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) guidelines, the teacher implements the NC Standard Course of Study using age-appropriate, hands-on, and play-based instructional techniques.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Instruction & Curriculum Delivery

• Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging, standards-based lessons aligned with the NC Standard Course of Study.
• Integrate play-based learning, multi-sensory activities, and hands-on tools to teach fundamental literacy, phonics, number sense, and problem-solving skills.
• Utilize state-mandated early literacy assessment tools to screen, monitor progress, and tailor instruction to individual student needs.
• Differentiate instruction for diverse learners, including Academically or Intellectually Gifted (AIG) students, English Learners (EL), and students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans.

Classroom Culture & Behavior Management

• Establish and maintain a positive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment that encourages curiosity, cooperation, and respect.
• Implement clear classroom rules, routines, and positive behavior supports (PBIS) to guide social-emotional development and self-regulation.
• Supervise children during classroom activities, transitions, recess, meal times, and dismissal to ensure physical safety at all times.

Assessment & Progress Reporting

• Regularly monitor and record student progress using informal observations, formative assessments, and state benchmark tools.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences to discuss academic progress, behavioral growth, and developmental milestones.
• Maintain accurate administrative records, including attendance, report cards, and cumulative files, in accordance with district policies.

Professional Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate regularly with grade-level peers, specialized instructional support personnel, special education staff, and school administrators.
• Participate in professional learning teams (PLTs), staff meetings, and required district professional development sessions.
• Maintain regular, open communication with families through newsletters, messaging apps, phone calls, and conferences.

Required Qualifications & Licensure

• Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Licensure: Valid North Carolina Professional Educator's License in BirthKindergarten (BK) or Elementary Education (K6) (or eligibility for an NC Residency License/license reciprocity).
• Background Check: Successful completion of state and local criminal background checks and drug screenings as required by our district.

Knowledge, Skills, and Physical Demands

• Early Childhood Expertise: Deep understanding of child development principles, early literacy acquisition, and foundational mathematical concepts.
• Communication & Interpersonal: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with young children, parents, colleagues, and administration.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, sit on the floor with students, lift up to 25 pounds, and stand for extended periods during supervision and instruction.