HOPE Preschool is an early childhood, Christian-based education center serving children ages three through five, and their families. As a ministry of Crossroads United Methodist Church (CUMC), HOPE Preschool provides a quality, developmentally appropriate education program in the community. The school focuses on the physical, social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual development of preschool children.
We are hiring both Lead and Assistant Teachers for HOPE Preschool.
The Lead Teacher is responsible for providing early childhood education for HOPE, creating and implementing a developmentally appropriate, faith-based curriculum that fosters physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth in students. The Lead Teacher builds strong partnerships with parents and works as a collaborative team member with their Assistant Teacher to maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom. The Lead Teacher fosters a collaborative team relationship with other preschool staff and maintains a supportive relationship with all church staff.
The Assistant Teacher will support the Lead Teacher in maintaining a safe, organized, and nurturing learning environment. The Assistant Teacher is vital to the daily flow of the classroom, focusing on the logistical and operational needs that allow the Lead Teacher to focus on instruction and parent engagement. The Assistant Teacher fosters a collaborative team relationship with other preschool staff and maintains a supportive relationship with all church staff.
Essential Functions (for specifics on the differences between Lead and Assistant Teacher, please contact us):
Curriculum & Instruction:
- Create and implement age-appropriate daily lesson plans that incorporate developmentally appropriate practices and weekly Bible scriptures.
- Lead classroom activities, managing the daily schedule and student transitions with care.
Classroom Management & Environment:
- Ensure a safe, clean, and well-organized classroom environment.
- Set up and take down classroom equipment as needed.
- Supervise student carline duties and ensure children are assisted to and from the building safely.
Student Observation:
- Maintain accurate student records, including developmental observations and progress notes for the Director and parents.
- Organize and implement September and mid-year parent-teacher conferences.
Family Engagement:
- Partner with the Teacher Assistant to build positive relationships with all parents, providing regular updates on classroom activities and student progress.
- Provide the Director and parents with a weekly or daily update that outlines an overview of classroom activities.
- Report any suspicions of child abuse or neglect immediately to the Director.
- Maintain a two-adult team policy at all times when students are present.
Administration:
- Inform the Director of any parent concerns, behavioral issues, or classroom challenges requiring leadership intervention.
- Attend scheduled staff meetings and special events.
- Adhere to contract terms for daily start and end times.
Education and Experience:
- High school graduate (18+ years of age). A degree in education or experience working in a preschool/childcare facility is highly preferred.
- Knowledgeable in the theories and practices of early childhood development.
- Demonstrated ability to work as a team member in a preschool environment. Excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to work with children who have diverse learning styles or behavioral challenges. Clear written and verbal communication skills to interact with children, parents, and faculty.
- Upon hiring, must provide a physical statement signed by an M.D./Nurse Practitioner, TB test/screening, and undergo a criminal background check as required by Virginia DOE and CUMC.
Working Conditions/Physical/Mental Demands
This position involves a combination of office work in a controlled temperature environment and participation in events. The role requires the ability to use standard office equipment (computers, phones, scanners, copiers, and filing cabinets). Physical demands include regularly talking and hearing, standing, walking, using hands and fingers, reaching, and occasionally lifting 10-15 pounds, bending, and stooping. Mental demands include the ability to learn, remember, focus, categorize information, problem-solve, comprehend, and make decisions.
Pay: $15.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Work Location: In person
