As a recognized leader in our field, The Guidance Center provides a broad range of services that have helped children, adults and families unlock potential and build better lives for more than 60 years. With 25 programs we offer treatment, prevention, growth and education services to more than 23,000 people annually. Together we: Nurture development. Foster resilience. Cultivate well-being.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Teacher (AA degree/Bachelor enrolled) to join our team of talented professionals.
Qualifications: Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development or evidence of early childhood or child development credits that exceed an Associates Degree. Must also be enrolled in a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education or related field degree program at the time of hire. Previous experience working with preschool children in a classroom setting. Knowledge and understanding of early childhood development and the ability to implement developmentally appropriate curriculum practices.
Ensure that daily activities and interactions reflect the mission and goals of the program. Plan and implement appropriate early childhood activities for children based on the principles of the Preschool HighScope curriculum. Provide and maintain a clean, nurturing and safe environment that supports and encourages the growth and development of preschoolers. Adhere to and maintain compliance with all The Guidance Center, Office of Head Start Performance Standards and any other local, state and/or agency policies and procedures. Demonstrate cultural competency and sensitivity and respect to the diverse backgrounds, needs and experiences of children, families, community volunteers and TGC employees. Pass physical examination and background checks before hire.
Must also have good physical mobility including ability to find and direct and move children in case of an emergency. Additionally you must be able to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted in order to assist children during emergencies. Employee must be able to stand consecutively for 3-1/2 hours per part-day class session and 5 hours per full-day class session. Employee must be able to ambulate between sitting on the floor and standing and chair sitting to standing a minimum of 20 times per session. Employee must be able to bend and stoop to child level and lift for urgent and emergency situations. Employee must be able to bend and stoop to address child concerns a minimum of 12 times per hour on average (ex: tying shoes for child safety). Employee must be able to sit on the floor or on a child size chair for up to 60 minute duration multiple times during class session.
Knowledge of or ability to learn to conduct developmental assessments of children. Good understanding of child development, age appropriate behaviors, common childhood behavior problems and appropriate interventions. Ability and willingness to continue personal and professional growth and skill development. Additional requirements include a nonjudgmental approach that reflects cultural competency and sensitivity to the unique needs and diverse experiences of our students, families, business partners and of the people in the programs represented by The Guidance Center. Must have the ability to appropriately handle crisis situations.
Work hours are 37.5 hours per week. M-F, 8-4.
The Guidance Center believes that our team members are our most valuable resources, and we invest in them accordingly. We offer our employees a competitive salary, flexible scheduling opportunities, a team-oriented work environment and much more!
