Preschool Teacher

The Preschool Teacher is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children ages 3 to 5 years old. Working collaboratively with a co-teacher, the Preschool Teacher supports children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development while ensuring compliance with state licensing standards and Step Up To Quality requirements.

The position requires implementation of Ohio Early Learning Standards, Creative Curriculum, and Teaching Strategies GOLD.

Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with co-teachers to ensure smooth classroom operations.
• Always Maintain active supervision (sight and sound supervision; name-to-face counts).
• Develop and post weekly lesson plans aligned with Ohio Early Learning Standards.
• Implement Creative Curriculum across all domains, including health and nutrition integration.
• Individualize instruction based on child observations, assessments, and developmental needs.
• Create a positive, inclusive, and culturally responsive classroom environment.
• Prepare classroom materials daily before children arrive.
• Follow Ohio licensing guidelines for supervision, handwashing, and diapering.
• Complete Teaching Strategies GOLD checkpoints four times per year.
• Conduct Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) and ASQ-SE screenings within 45 days of enrollment and annually thereafter.
• Document observations and anecdotal notes to inform instruction.
• Identify and communicate potential developmental concerns according to program procedures.
• Keep emergency supplies and attendance records accessible during transitions.
• Maintain daily safety checklists and weekly cleaning logs. Ensure proper storage of chemicals, medications, and personal belongings.
• Promote dental hygiene and healthy habits.
• Ensure children are clean and appropriately prepared for pick-up.
• Treat children and families with dignity and respect.
• Promote parent involvement. Support families in promoting their child’s health, development, and education.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences twice per year.
• Take point-of-service meal counts and post current monthly menu. Sit and engage with children during meals.
• Maintain professionalism and represent the organization positively.
• Adhere to agency policies, confidentiality standards, and dress code.
• Attend all required training and staff meetings.
• Maintain active Ohio Professional Registry profile (OCCRRA).

Qualifications:

• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Infant/Toddler CDA with 1-2 years’ experience required.
• Minimum one year of experience in a licensed childcare setting preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Successful completion of: BCI and FBI background checks, physical exam and TB test, pre-employment drug screening, first aid and CPR certification, child abuse and communicable disease training.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, reaching, bending, sitting on floor, and stair climbing.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to actively supervise infants and toddlers in classroom and outdoor environments.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.