A Preschool or Childcare Teacher works with young children, usually ages 3 - 5, to help them learn the social, motor and language skills needed to be ready for kindergarten and elementary school. Organizes activities and uses play or games to help children learn; develops schedules and routines for children that include exercise and rest. Works in a school or in a childcare center or program.
- Brand New Program, rooted in Community Des Moines, Washington Join Us in Building Something Extraordinary Pathways Families Thrive is seeking passionate, dedicated, and relationship-focused educators to join our founding team as we open our doors to children and families throughout South King County. At Pathways Families Thrive, we believe children deserve more than childcare—they deserve a place where they are known, valued, nurtured, and inspired. Our mission is to strengthen children, families, and communities through high-quality early learning experiences, family partnerships, and culturally responsive practices that honor the strengths of every child and family. This is an exciting opportunity to help build a new program from the ground up while making a meaningful difference in the lives of young children during the most important years of development. Our program serves infants, toddlers, preschool children, and families in a warm, welcoming, family-centered environment. Hours of Operation Monday through Friday 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Employee schedules may vary based upon enrollment, classroom assignment, and program needs. Compensation $23.00 - $28.00 per hour DOE Educational Excellence Pathways Families Thrive values education, professional growth, and lifelong learning. While we welcome passionate educators at every stage of their career journey, preference may be given to candidates holding an Associate Degree or Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a closely related field. Candidates actively pursuing an ECE degree are encouraged to apply.
LEAD PRESCHOOL TEACHER ECEAP CLASSROOM
Wage $25.00 - $28.00 per hour DOE Position Overview Pathways Families Thrive is seeking an exceptional educator to lead our state-funded ECEAP Preschool Classroom. The Lead Preschool Teacher is responsible for creating a high-quality learning environment that promotes school readiness, family engagement, developmental growth, and kindergarten success. This position works closely with families, Family Support Staff, and program leadership to ensure children receive comprehensive services aligned with ECEAP Performance Standards. Responsibilities Implement Creative Curriculum. Complete Teaching Strategies GOLD assessments. Develop lesson plans aligned with school readiness goals. Conduct ongoing observations and documentation. Support family conferences and home visits as required. Maintain ECEAP compliance requirements. Collaborate with Family Support Specialists and program leadership. Participate in monitoring, quality improvement, and professional development activities. Promote inclusive practices and individualized support. Qualifications Required Meet Washington State ECEAP Lead Teacher qualifications or ability to obtain qualifications within required timelines. Washington State ECE Initial Certificate or higher. Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid Certification. Washington State Background Clearance. Experience teaching preschool-aged children. Preferred Associate Degree (AA/AAS) in Early Childhood Education or related field. Bachelor's Degree (BA/BS) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, Human Development, Family Studies, or related field highly preferred. Experience with Teaching Strategies GOLD. Experience with Creative Curriculum. Experience working within ECEAP, Head Start, or publicly funded preschool programs. Physical Requirements Lift and carry classroom materials and children as needed. Sit on the floor and engage with children throughout the day. Participate in outdoor learning and active supervision. Bend, kneel, squat, and move frequently.
WHY JOIN PATHWAYS FAMILIES THRIVE?
✔ Competitive Compensation/Benefits ✔ Professional Development Opportunities ✔ Supportive Leadership Team ✔ Family-Centered Culture ✔ Collaborative Work Environment ✔ Opportunities for Growth and Advancement ✔ Meaningful Work That Impacts Children and Families ✔ Opportunity to Help Build a New Program From the Ground Up If you believe every child deserves a strong start, every family deserves support, and every educator deserves the opportunity to make a difference, we encourage you to apply. Together, we are creating pathways to lifelong success.
