Preschool Teacher -
District Partner Classroom Location:
Clifton, NJ Schedule:
Full-time, 10-month school year Reports to:
Center Director and District Preschool Supervisor Salary:
$60,000.00 (salary varies with credentials and experience) Position Summary Tiniest Footprints Early Learning Childcare Center, in partnership with Clifton Public Schools, is seeking a passionate, dedicated, and certified Preschool Teacher to lead a high-quality, inclusive preschool classroom. This position requires a deep commitment to developmentally appropriate practices, family engagement, and instructional alignment with New Jersey's Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards. The Preschool Teacher will work collaboratively with paraprofessionals, district coaches, families, and center leadership to ensure that every child receives a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Key Responsibilities
- Instruction & Curriculum Implementation
- Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with the NJ Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards and Creative Curriculum
- Deliver engaging lessons that support social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development
- Differentiate instruction based on children's individual learning needs, strengths, and interests
- Incorporate play-based, child-centered learning experiences that foster inquiry, exploration, and creativity
- Assessment & Data Collection
- Observe and document children's learning through anecdotal notes, photos, work samples, and formal assessments
- Utilize Teaching Strategies GOLD (TS GOLD) to assess children's development across all domains
- Use assessment data to inform instruction and adjust teaching strategies as needed
- Participate in Child Study Team or IEP meetings when required
- Classroom Management & Environment
- Create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment that promotes respect, independence, and curiosity
- Establish consistent routines, clear expectations, and positive behavioral supports
- Maintain compliance with Grow NJ Kids standards, NJDOE regulations, and licensing requirements
- Ensure all materials and classroom displays reflect cultural and linguistic diversity
- Family Engagement
- Foster strong relationships with families through regular communication, newsletters, and conferences
- Engage families in their child's development and learning through home-school connections
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
- Professional Collaboration
- Collaborate with paraprofessionals, administrators, district instructional coaches, and consultants
- Attend district professional development sessions and center-based staff meetings
- Participate in internal coaching, mentoring, and reflective practice
- Complete required district and state documentation, including inputting data into NJDOE portals (e.
g., NJ
SMART, NJ CERT
) Required Qualifications
- Must hold one of the following valid New Jersey teaching certificates:
- CE (Certificate of Eligibility) in Preschool through Grade 3
- CEAS (Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing) in Preschool through Grade 3
- Standard Certification in Preschool through Grade 3
- Demonstrated understanding of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood
- Experience with or willingness to learn Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and cultural responsiveness
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience teaching in a district-funded preschool program
- Knowledge of Grow NJ Kids, Preschool Expansion Guidelines, and NJ Early Learning Standards
- Bilingual (Spanish/English) is a plus Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary aligned with district preschool grant rates
- Paid professional development and training
- Access to instructional coaching and support from master teachers
- Collaborative work environment focused on high-quality early learning How to Apply Qualified applicants should send a resume, NJ teaching certificate, and cover letter to: Lori.
tiniestfootprints@gmail.com 973-546-8000 649 Lexington Avenue, Clifton, NJ 07011
Job Type:
Full-time Pay:
$60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year
Work Location:
In person