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.
The Child Care Teacher provides high-quality early learning experiences that support children's physical, social-emotional, cognitive, and developmental growth. Utilizing the HighScope curriculum and related assessment and guidance practices, this position creates a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that promotes each child's sense of belonging, independence, and well-being. Child Care Teachers build positive relationships with children by recognizing and supporting their unique strengths, interests, cultures, abilities, and developmental needs. Through observation, documentation, assessment, and intentional teaching, educators use child development data to guide learning experiences, support individual growth, and foster curiosity, confidence, and school readiness. In partnership with families, educators communicate respectfully and maintain confidentiality while recognizing families as essential partners in a child's development. Educators collaborate professionally with colleagues and uphold Encompass policies, Wisconsin DCF licensing regulations, NAEYC Professional Standards and Code of Ethical Conduct, and developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive, and inclusive practices.
Requirements:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Ability to actively supervise children and maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. Ability to build positive, respectful relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism. Ability to utilize classroom technology and software to support communication, documentation, assessment, and program requirements. Demonstrated organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Maintain dependable attendance, punctuality, and scheduling flexibility to support classroom operations and ensure compliance with DCF teacher-to-child ratio requirements. Ability to successfully complete required background checks and meet regulatory requirements. Exhibits agency values in daily work and demonstrates commitment to the agency mission. Ensures classroom practices align with HighScope, COR Advantage, DCF, NAEYC, and YoungStar requirements.
NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Other duties as assigned
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in a classroom and childcare setting with young children. The position requires active supervision and engagement with children both indoors and outdoors. The work environment may include moderate to high noise levels and exposure to varying weather conditions during outdoor activities. Occasional travel for training, meetings, or agency events may be required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, and sitting on the floor while supervising and engaging with children. Ability to lift, carry, and assist children, supplies, and equipment weighing up to 30 pounds. Ability to move quickly and respond appropriately to children's needs and emergency situations. Ability to actively supervise children by sight and sound in classroom, playground, and outdoor environments. Frequent use of hands and arms for classroom activities, feeding, diapering, cleaning, and assisting children. Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Ability to see, hear, and communicate effectively with children, families, and staff.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
Must be registered with or eligible to register with The Registry, Wisconsin's Recognition System for the Early Childhood Education and Care Profession. Lead Educators must meet the education requirements established by DCF and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Must obtain and maintain all required certifications and training, including Pediatric First Aid, CPR/AED, Abusive Head Trauma Prevention, Child Abuse and Neglect Mandated Reporter Training, and other training required by DCF, NAEYC, or Encompass. Prior experience in an early childhood education setting required. Experience with HighScope or Conscious Discipline preferred. Experience in a NAEYC-accredited program preferred.
SKILLS/ABILITIES
Ability to create and maintain a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for children. Ability to build positive, responsive relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Ability to observe, assess, and respond to children's developmental, behavioral, and learning needs. Ability to implement curriculum, plan developmentally appropriate learning experiences, and support children's growth and development. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Exhibits agency values in daily work and demonstrates commitment to the agency mission.
