Summary

: We invite caring, curious, creative, capable and collaborative people to apply for our early childhood educator positions. These part- to full-time flex year, benefited positions (August-June) will be supported and guided by the team of teachers.

The ideal candidates will have deep love and respect for people of all ages, a desire to learn and grow with others through hands-on, play-based investigations (outside and indoors). They will possess strong social and collaborative skills, and have a keen understanding of emergent, play-based outdoor curriculum.

Program Description: The Ralph Waldo Emerson School for Preschoolers (Emerson) is a non denominational, non-profit located in Concord, NH on the UU Church of Concord property, original home of the Abenaki people past and present. Emerson began in 1966 by a group of parents wanting a preschool that strived to model best practices. For 60 years now, Emerson provides top quality care by offering nurturing and beautiful environments where young children are encouraged to explore in nature, be creative, cultivate positive relationships, experience the joy of learning, and develop both independence and community.

Our preschool teaching team co-creates curriculum with children and their families based on the observation/research model of the Reggio Emilia approach. Our school achieves the highest standards of care as demonstrated through our NAEYC (National Academy of Early Childhood Programs) accreditation and our designation as a NH Granite Steps for Quality, Pyramid Model Implementation site for social and emotional learning.

Emerson's uniqueness results from the emphasis on partnerships between staff, a parent-led Board of Directors, families and children. Emerson is an educational environment that nurtures innovation, professionalism, inclusion, diversity, equity and wellbeing, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and self-care practices.

Duties

Job Duties/Responsibilities:

Coordinate, plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum, model appropriate child guidance, foster positive relationships with team members, children and families. Engage with each family, maintain communication with primary families including daily communications, regular written communication, planning and conducting caregiver conferences and caregiver education events. Participate in team teaching for all children in the classrooms (indoors and out), assessment of children through observation and documentation, record keeping, referrals for special education, and assist the team in maintaining a safe and clean physical environment. Monthly check ins with the Director, as well as annual evaluation process. Participate in weekly staff meetings and monthly staff professional development. Attain NH Credential within and train in Pyramid Model as guided by professional development expectations within 6 months. Participate in Pyramid Model SEL coaching. Ensure teaching with the most updated professional knowledge and information by attending conferences, workshops and keeping current with course literature. Assume administrative designation in director's absence, if necessary. Follow and uphold all procedures and policies of the Ralph Waldo Emerson School for Preschoolers.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood, Family Studies, Elementary Education or closely related field. Minimum 2 years teaching experience with children ages birth to 5 years. Demonstrated organizational skills and interpersonal communication skills with at least 3 credits in childhood development. Must have sufficient strength and physical dexterity to perform duties and responsibilities of this position, including lifting up to 50 lbs. Comfort and interest in working in the outdoors with young children in all NH seasons.

Nice To Haves

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood, Family Studies, Elementary Education or closely related field. One year supervisory experience or Master’s Degree in Early Childhood, Family Studies, Elementary Education, Visual Arts, or closely related field. Pyramid Model SEL training and experience. Experience teaching in a NAEYC or NH Granite Steps for Quality center or other quality rating program. Experience working in the outdoors with children in all seasons.

Benefits

Salary Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience and work hours, and complemented by a comprehensive benefits package which includes options for medical, Health Savings Account (HSA), dental, vision, retirement and paid professional development.