Early Childhood Educator

Position Title: Early Childhood Teacher

Location:  Discovery Learning Center

Job Type:  Full-time

Overview:

Discovery Learning Center has been educating young minds in Routt County for over 40 years . We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Early Childhood Teacher to join our team. This position involves working with preschool-aged children, implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum, and fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment. As an Early Childhood Teacher, you will play a key role in supporting the growth and development of young learners, collaborating with a teaching team, and maintaining strong relationships with parents and colleagues.

You will work under the supervision of the Director, contributing to the overall mission of Discovery Learning Center. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in early childhood education and a commitment to providing high-quality care and education.

Mission Statement:

Discovery Learning Center’s mission is to provide quality early childhood care and education in a supportive environment for children, families, and the broader community. We aim to foster positive self-esteem, confidence in learning, self-control, positive social relationships, and a love of exploration in every child. Our goal is to help each child grow into a confident, competent, and caring individual.

Responsibilities:

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Developing and implementing monthly, weekly, and daily curriculum plans in coordination with your teaching team.
• Preparing and delivering developmentally appropriate lessons in line with Discovery’s philosophy and state regulations.
• Maintaining a safe, inviting, and stimulating classroom and outdoor play area, while making suggestions for improvements when appropriate.
• Documenting each child’s progress through observations, checklists, and samples of their work, and completing required assessments.
• Adhering to all health, safety, and emergency procedures, as well as Colorado state regulations and accreditation standards (NAEYC, Colorado Minimum Rules, and CDEC Academic Standards).
• Supervising and mentoring teaching assistants, aides, and substitutes while modeling professional behavior.
• Providing individualized attention and support to children, ensuring a positive and nurturing classroom environment.
• Implementing behavior management techniques consistent with Discovery’s Behavior Guidance Policy.
• Communicating effectively with families and colleagues, maintaining a warm, professional relationship with all families.
• Attending staff meetings, training programs, and conferences, and keeping up-to-date with state and Discovery documentation requirements.
• Collaborating with parents and guardians to share insights on child development and learning strategies.
• Offering additional support and tutoring to children needing extra assistance in specific areas.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (preferred).
• Experience in a preschool or childcare setting is highly desirable, minimum 2 years experience.
• Strong understanding of early childhood development and best practices in education.
• Experience in developing and implementing curriculum tailored to preschool-aged children.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Ability to manage classroom dynamics and foster positive relationships with children and staff.
• A passion for educating young children and supporting their development through innovative teaching methods.
• Commitment to professional growth and ongoing improvement in early childhood education.

Performance Evaluation:

Performance will be evaluated based on job responsibilities and NAEYC Accreditation Criteria.

Why Join Us:

At Discovery Learning Center, we are committed to providing an inclusive, positive, and supportive environment for our youngest learners. Join us in shaping the future of early childhood education and providing children with the foundational skills they need for lifelong success.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.00 - $29.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Retirement plan & matching
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance
• Paid time off, sick, personal, vacation
• Parental leave. FAMLI
• Professional development assistance, tuition reimbursement

Schedule:

• Day shift, Monday to Friday, No nights, No weekends

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Preferred) Age: minimum age of 25 to drive the bus