General Position Description
The Preschool Lead Teacher creates and administers a Reggio Emilia-inspired and project-based classroom program that is conducive to student learning and which emphasizes mutual respect for all people. The Preschool Lead Teacher is flexible and committed to a continuous process for professional growth. They are a collegial member of the Early Childhood teaching team and of the FFS faculty and staff and emphasize mutual respect for all people.
Major responsibilities include developing and implementing creative and innovative curriculum including learning centers and project-based learning initiatives, working cooperatively with the Early Childhood team, and participating in/directing various Early Childhood activities. These activities include lunch and recess, planning and attending field trips, participating in admissions-related events, writing reports, and other related activities that contribute to the School community. All teachers are members of at least one school committee and engage in at least one other activity/job that benefits the school community, as determined by the Head of School, such as leading a team, organizing all-school events, or overseeing activities.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan and implement high-quality and innovative curriculum in a creative, engaging and stimulating classroom program with daily learning centers and interdisciplinary, project-based, collaborative work;
- Promote high expectations, and establish an environment that supports social, emotional, and academic development in students;
- Evaluate the progress of each student through formal and informal assessment;
- Demonstrate a consistantly caring, patient, and nurturing attitude and demeanor with the students;
- Communicate with parents and caregivers about their child’s progress (phone, email, conferences, newsletters). Be available for individual meetings when needed;
- Use positive and productive techniques for improving student behavior;
- Demonstrate ability to be adaptive, reflective, resilient, and flexible in work situations;
- Integrate the Quaker testimonies of peace, simplicity, integrity, community and stewardship into the curriculum and when interacting with community members;
- Oversee, mentor, and direct assistant teachers;
- Maintain a clean and orderly classroom;
- Other related duties as assigned by the Director
Additional Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required
The successful candidate is a collegial and dedicated teacher who is well versed in their subject area, able to form excellent relationships with young children and has:
- A minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in working with ages 2.5-5 yrs;
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills;
- The interest in and capability to work, plan, and implement project-based learning initiatives;
- The ability to establish cooperative working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and parents;
- Strong organizational and classroom management skills;
- Enthusiasm and passion for the school’s mission, culture and values;
- An understanding and commitment to living the Quaker testimonies of peace, simplicity, integrity, community and stewardship;
- Flexibility and a commitment to a continuous process for professional growth - teaching, use of educational technologies, cultural competency, and inclusivity.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Ability to be adaptive, reflective, resilient, and flexible in work situations.
Educational Requirements
- AAS in Early Childhood Education; BA/BS/MA in Early Childhood Education preferred
- For PreK - Certification required
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
- Be able to work both standing up and sitting down for the length of the school day
- Be able to walk up and down at least two flights of stairs, supervise children on the playground, and walk between school buildings
- Be able to work in a wide variety of school environments, including the buildings, gardens, playgrounds, other areas of the campus, on field trips, etc. in all seasons and all weather
- Be able to pick up children and objects up to 35 lbs.
- Be able to pass all criminal record checks, background checks, and child abuse clearances
Employment Type
Full time (12 months), exempt employee, with benefits to include: paid parental leave; tuition remission and free after care for eligible children who attend FFS Main Campus; health care; professional development; 5% match on retirement contributions; 10 days PTO.
The School believes that children benefit most from in-person classes and activities as well as from relationships with faculty and staff who engage with them in all areas of school life. The School encourages its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and reserves the right to require its employees to receive the COVID-19 primary series and booster vaccinations, subject to the limitations of federal and state law, employee eligibility, and the availability of the vaccine.
FFS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or gender. In addition to federal law requirements, FFS complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.
Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of three references related to teaching and working with children to hiring@frankfordfriends.org.
