Group Preschool Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Job summary:

The Group Pre-K teacher is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating educational environment for preschool children in a Montessori center for kids aged 2.5 - 6 years of age. In addition to planning and executing daily learning activities, the teacher must be able to guide children in developing social, emotional, and cognitive skills needed for a smooth transition to kindergarten. This role includes mentoring and supervising assistant teachers and aides.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:

• Curriculum planning and implementation: Develop and execute daily lesson plans and activities that align with both Montessori methodology and other non-Montessori educational standards, such as the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) or state-approved curriculum standards. Activities must focus on traditional Montessori methodologies and creative methods like storytelling, arts and crafts, and dramatic play.
• Classroom management: Maintain a structured, clean, and organized classroom to promote a positive learning experience. This includes organizing furniture and learning areas, arranging equipment, and ensuring all materials are age-appropriate and safe.
• Child supervision and safety: Actively supervise children during all activities, including free play, mealtimes, and outdoor time, to ensure their safety and well-being. The teacher must be trained in emergency procedures, such as CPR and First Aid.
• Child development observation and assessment: Monitor and evaluate each child's progress and developmental needs. This involves observing children's interactions and learning and keeping confidential, up-to-date records of their achievements and developmental milestones.
• Parent communication and engagement: Maintain open and consistent communication with parents and guardians. Responsibilities include providing regular progress reports, scheduling and conducting parent-teacher conferences, and involving families in their child's educational journey.

• Team collaboration and mentorship: Work effectively with other staff, including assistant teachers and aides. Lead teacher must provide direction to their classroom team, offering guidance and feedback to ensure a smooth, cooperative environment.
• Professional development: Participate in NJCCIS professional development courses, in- service training, staff meetings, and other professional development activities to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.
• Backup Role: Serve as a backup for assistant teachers and aides, and be ready to perform essential childcare tasks, including diapering, feeding, and supervising naps, to ensure seamless operations during staff shortages.

Qualifications and Other Requirements:

· Education:

• Required :

§ Bachelor's or associate's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field

§ Montessori teacher training by leading training centers

• o Preferred : Child Development Associate (CDA) credential

· Professional Certification: First Aid/CPR/AED certification by organizations such as American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other authorized independent training centers or safety companies.

· Experience: 2-4 years of prior experience working with preschool-aged children.

· Background check: All candidates must successfully complete a criminal background check.

· Soft Skills: Requires good written and spoken communication, patience to work with children, creativity, problem solving, organizational & time management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with other staff and partners.

· Physical demands: The role will be physically demanding, requiring a teacher to stand for long periods, lift at least 35–50 pounds, and get up and down from the floor to interact with children.