Introduction to the Erik Hite Foundation
The Erik Hite Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support to the families of first responders and military members in our community. Our primary program, the Child Development Center, offers affordable fees and flexible hours to these families, ensuring they receive the best care and beginning education for their children. We are committed to partnering with families to provide high-quality care and education, guided by godly principles that are close to the heart of Erik. As an organization, we strive to serve and care for the families of our heroes, just as they serve and protect our community.
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Lead Teacher to join our team at the Child Development Center. As a Lead Teacher for 3-year-olds, you will play a vital role in providing a nurturing and engaging environment that fosters the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of our young students. If you are dedicated to early childhood education and have a passion for working with children and families, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Key Responsibilities
- Update Brightwheel, our online childcare management program, on a daily basis to ensure accurate and timely communication with parents and administration.
- Maintain children's documentation in portfolios and keep parents and administration informed of their development and progress.
- Conduct bi-annual parent/teacher conferences to discuss children's progress and involve parents in their education.
- Attend training sessions throughout the year, completing a minimum of 30 hours of professional development to stay current on best practices in early childhood education.
- Attend mandatory in-service days and staff meetings to contribute to the development of our programs and services.
- Develop and implement lesson plans with developmentally appropriate activities that promote learning and engagement.
- Ensure that the classroom environment is safe, clean, and well-organized, with materials and equipment that are age-appropriate and free from hazards.
- Lead and engage with children in daily routines, such as diapering, hand washing, and eating, while promoting independence and self-care skills.
- Collaborate with co-teachers and other staff members to ensure a cohesive and supportive team environment.
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have the ability to run, jump, bend, lift (at least 50lbs.), stand, and sit on the floor, as required for working with young children
- Be available to work full-time, 35+ hours per week, Monday through Friday, with potentially a rotating Saturday shift
- Have a valid fingerprint clearance card and TB test
- Preferably have an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential
- Have a minimum of 1 year of experience working in a birth to 5-year-old classroom
- Have CPR and First Aid certification or be willing to obtain certification
- Preferably have experience with AZ Learning Standards and Infant Toddler Guidelines for lesson planning and observation purposes
- Preferably have experience with the Quality First program and ECERS and ITERS Rating scales, to ensure that Quality First guidelines are being followed
Skills and Competencies
To be successful in this role, you will need to possess the following skills and competencies:
- Strong knowledge of early childhood education principles and practices
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with children, parents, and staff members
- Ability to plan and implement engaging and developmentally appropriate activities for young children
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities
- Ability to work as part of a team and contribute to a positive and supportive work environment
- Commitment to providing high-quality care and education to young children and their families
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
At the Erik Hite Foundation, we are committed to supporting the professional growth and development of our staff members. As a Lead Teacher, you will have opportunities to:
- Attend training sessions and workshops to stay current on best practices in early childhood education
- Participate in mentoring and coaching programs to support your professional development
- Pursue higher education and certification in early childhood education, with support from our organization
- Take on leadership roles and contribute to the development of our programs and services
Work Environment and Company Culture
Our Child Development Center is a warm and welcoming environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and growth. As a Lead Teacher, you will be part of a dynamic and dedicated team that is passionate about providing high-quality care and education to young children and their families.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
We offer a competitive hourly pay rate, depending on experience and education, as well as a range of benefits, including:
- Flexible schedule, with opportunities for professional development and growth
- Subsidized medical insurance
- 40 hours of accrued sick pay annually
- Paid training opportunities and continuing education assistance
- Paid Annual Early Childhood Conference at UofA in December
- ECE Classes Reward paid with completed classes and a C or higher grade
- Recruiting Cash Incentive
- SIMPLE IRA Plan with employer contributions
- 3-paid holidays/year
- 80 hrs of paid vacation after 12 months of employment
- Quarterly Wellness paid day off
- Birthday - paid day off
- Bereavement paid leave
- Time off for Jury Duty/court appearance leave, time to vote, Military Leave, etc.
- Child Care Scholarship available
- Family-oriented atmosphere, working in a team-player school
- Small classrooms and low child-adult ratio
Conclusion
If you are a passionate and dedicated early childhood educator who is committed to providing high-quality care and education to young children and their families, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Lead Teacher at the Erik Hite Foundation, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive team that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. You will have opportunities for professional growth and development, as well as a range of benefits and perks that recognize your hard work and dedication. Don't miss out on this chance to make a difference in the lives of young children and their families - apply now to join our team!
Apply Now