Teacher

General Summary

The Teacher is responsible for leading the assigned classroom and directing Assistant Teachers. The Teacher will plan and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum based on what is provided and create engaging and educational experiences tailored to the needs of children in their care. This includes preparing weekly lesson plans, incorporating hands on activities, and fostering a love of learning through creative exploration. This role includes partnering with parents, colleagues, and community professionals to provide nurturing care and education which meets the educational, physical, and emotional needs of children, ensuring compliance with Iowa childcare regulations. Expectations of the Teacher include enforcing safety protocols, supervising children closely, modeling positive behaviors, maintaining open communication with parents/guardians, completing regular progress assessments, and responding to the individual needs of each child.

Essential Functions

· Provide High-Quality Care: Deliver care and education that meets the diverse needs of children, promoting their overall healthy development in a group setting.

· Communication with Families: Ensure positive and proactive communication with parents through verbal and written/electronic contact, providing updates on children’s progress, addressing concerns, and identifying opportunities for growth. Conduct parent-teacher conferences and case conferences as needed.

· Program Planning and Implementation: Planning a stimulating, developmentally appropriate curriculum based on proven methods which align with organizational, legal, and Iowa HHS guidelines. Incorporate self-directed learning and ensure activities meet the needs of individual children while promoting anti-racist, non-sexist, and culturally sensitive inclusive learning.

· Classroom Management & Supervision: Performing daily classroom operations, including preparing materials, setting up activity areas, and implementing lesson plans. Provide a nurturing environment by modeling positive behavior, guiding children through activities, routines, and transitions, and supporting social-emotional development.

· Observation and Assessment: Observe, assess, and document children’s progress, recommending adjustments to the curriculum or individual accommodations as needed. Alert the Director to make referrals as needed.

· Physical Needs of Children: Attend to children’s basic physical needs, including feeding, diapering, toileting, and assisting with self-help skills. Ensure children’s personal care needs are met in accordance with health and safety regulations.

· Health & Safety Compliance: Maintain a clean, safe, and healthy environment by ensuring proper sanitation of toys and activity areas. Follow Iowa HHS guidelines for health and safety, including administering medication, reporting accidents or incidents, and addressing any health concerns (e.g., illness, allergies).

· Facility Safety: Regularly monitor the facility for health and safety hazards, including correcting and communicating hazards found, ensuring all areas are free of potential dangers. Open and secure the facility as required.

· Program Administration & Support: Record attendance, communicate classroom staffing needs to ensure appropriate ratios, and maintain supplies. Attend staff meetings and participate in agency activities and committee functions.

· Compliance with Licensing & Regulations: Maintain all required employment certifications and ensure adherence to licensing regulations, including ongoing professional development as required by Little Tigers and Iowa HHS.

· Professional Development: Participate in continuing education and training to maintain Iowa HHS approval for working in a licensed childcare center and keep abreast of developments in early childhood education.

· Confidentiality & Professionalism: Respect the confidentiality of all staff, children, and families, always maintain professionalism, and adhere to NAEYC ethical standards in all interactions with children, families, and staff.

· Adherence to Policies: Follow the policies and procedures of Little Tigers, including adhering to the company’s mission, philosophy, and all safety protocols.

· Other Duties as Assigned: Perform additional tasks as assigned by the On-Site supervisor, Assistant Director or Director. Obtain HHS approval as an “On-Site Supervisor” to perform modified On-Site Supervisor duties to open and/or close the facility without leadership oversight.

Requirements and Preferences

Experience:

· At least 3 years of experience working in early childhood education, childcare, adult care, health care or a related field.

· Experience with children of various age groups and abilities preferred.

Education:

· High School diploma or GED required

· Higher education preferred, such as certification, Associate’s Degree, or higher

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Must be at least 18 years of age.

· Ability to pass Iowa HHS and FBI background checks per Iowa HHS regulations.

· Must obtain and maintain Iowa HHS approval to work in a licensed childcare center

· Must obtain and maintain HHS mandatory training and certifications (i.e. FA/CPR, Mandatory Reporting), including annual continuing education requirements.

· Basic knowledge of Iowa childcare rules and regulations, including staffing ratios, safety procedures, and child development standards.

· Ability to work in a team and collaborate effectively with others.

· Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

· Basic computer skills and ability to maintain records and documentation as required.

· Must have reliable transportation and maintain flexibility to adjust schedules as needed.

· Must demonstrate patience, compassion, and enthusiasm for working with young children.

Physical Components:

· Ability to walk and be on feet for up to 10 hours a day

· Ability to lift to 50 pounds

· Ability to bend repeatedly

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $14.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person