Associate Teacher

ECDC Associate Shared Teacher Position Overview The Associate Shared Teacher is a full-time, 12-month professional position, typically scheduled 8 hours per day / 40 hours per week.

Minimum Qualifications

Must be at least 21 years of age CDA, Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field Previous experience working with children in a group setting Knowledge of Developmentally Appropriate Practices Physically able to lift 40 pounds and meet the demands of supervising young children Able to visually and audibly supervise children both indoors and outdoors Successful completion of pediatric First Aid and CPR training Passing scores on physical exam, criminal history check, and drug screening Essential Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Plans and implements a developmentally appropriate Project Approach Curriculum Creates and maintains a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment Builds positive relationships with preschool and school-age children Demonstrates understanding of child development and how young children learn Applies appropriate classroom guidance and management strategies Demonstrates emotional and social maturity to respond responsibly in stressful or crisis situations Shows sensitivity to children's individual learning, emotional, social, physical, and creative needs Implements Indiana Licensing Regulations and NAEYC Accreditation Standards Visually observes and supervises children's activities indoors and outdoors Lifts children and equipment up to 40 pounds; bends and kneels to children's eye level Moves quickly to intervene in unsafe situations Communicates openly and positively with children, families, college students, and ECDC staff Primary Responsibilities The Associate Shared Teacher supports the Co-Lead Teachers in planning and implementing a developmental program consistent with ECDC's philosophy, NAEYC Accreditation standards, and Indiana child care licensing requirements.

This includes assisting with a Project Approach Curriculum that encourages creativity and divergent thinking and is responsive to children's interests. Learning activities include art, language arts, math, music, science, social science, free-choice activities, and gross and fine motor development — all centered on each child's physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and creative growth.

Ancillary Responsibilities The Associate Shared Teacher is also responsible for: Attending scheduled teacher meetings Pursuing ongoing professional development (in-service opportunities, conferences, and/or coursework) to meet Indiana Licensing and NAEYC Accreditation requirements Establishing and maintaining open, communicative relationships with families Assisting Co-Lead Teachers with room arrangement and materials; maintaining a safe, healthy, clean, orderly, and welcoming learning environment Supervising Assistant Teachers and college students (both paid and volunteer) Providing input to Co-Lead Teachers regarding educational materials, equipment, and supplies for the learning environment Modeling and maintaining confidentiality regarding children, families, staff, students, and volunteers, in accordance with ECDC policies and director guidelines Communicating regularly with Co-Lead Teachers about relevant information, including atypical situations, concerns, and ideas related to children, families, and the program Working cooperatively with ECDC administrators, Co-Lead Teachers, Associate and Assistant Teachers, and college students as a collaborative team member Serving as substitute Co-Lead Teacher as needed, including coverage in various ECDC rooms Assisting with Food Service as needed, including serving lunch and helping with lunch clean up