Lead Preschool Teacher

JOB PURPOSE

The Lead Preschool Teacher will work in their classroom Monday-Friday with a partner to guide and support the holistic development of children between the ages of 2-6.  Using the MCS philosophy as a framework, this role is responsible for planning and implementing instructional strategies and curriculum.  The classroom location and ages of learners will vary depending on school need. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervisory Responsibility: Lead Teachers will oversee and collaborate with assigned Assist Teachers and will be responsible for their classroom learners. 

Essential Duties

• Use the MCS philosophy as a framework to assist in all areas of the classroom including activities, circles, and free play. 
• Plan instructional strategies, implement curriculum, and spearhead project-based learning.
• Respond sensitively to the needs of individual children and families to ensure the physical and emotional safety of all children. 
• Relate and communicate well to both families and learners. 
• Oversee positive and proactive behavior supports.
• Model and integrate mindfulness learning.
• Document and report on children’s growth, both academic and social-emotional skills.
• Plan and prep for day to day sessions including activities, circles, materials in the room, field trips, and the classroom routines and procedures. 
• Communicate with a teaching partner as appropriate to ensure all tasks are accomplished. 
• Attend and actively participate in weekly collaboration and professional development meetings with the Executive Director and/or Curriculum Coordinator.
• Set up and close the room every day and complete all opening and closing duties. 
• Communicate with families about upcoming events. 
• Maintain classroom environment throughout the day by cleaning, sweeping, putting away, etc. 
• Track attendance and number of learners to ensure correct student to teacher ratio. 
• Communicate student needs to other teachers as necessary. 
• Assist in school event planning, trainings, and any other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Enthusiasm, knowledge, and patience for early learners. 
• Familiarity with the principles of inquiry-based learning.
• Proficiency in or willingness and ability to learn all software used for school operations.
• Willingness and knowledge of all safety factors in caring for children aged 2-6.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment with specific deadlines.
• Effective and professional communication with MCS learners, parents, and staff. 

Required Education and Experience: 

• Previous experience working in an early childhood learning environment preferred.
• High School Diploma or equivalent. 
• Related degree or certification in Early Education preferred. 

Required Licensure and Screenings:

• Must complete a pre-employment background check and documentation of immunizations as required by the state licensing agency.
• Must complete the approved CPR and First Aid courses within 30 days of hire.
• Must complete the required licensing training within 90 days of hire.
• Must register with the Early Childhood Project and complete required annual training.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit and stand for prolonged periods of time.
• You must be able to physically access all areas of the facility.
• Must be able to lift up to fifty (50) pounds occasionally.

EEO Statement

Missoula Community School provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Missoula Community School complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. This does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.