Job DescriptionJob Description
Early Childhood EducatorThe Pre-k Teacher provides leadership within the classroom to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment grounded in a Reggio Emilia–inspired philosophy. This role is responsible for curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, documentation of children’s learning, and fostering strong relationships with families. The Pre-k Teacher serves as a facilitator of child-led inquiry and a collaborative partner to colleagues while advancing the mission and values of Urban Sprouts. This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy and Assistant Head of Pedagogy.
Compensation & Benefits:Pay Range: $21 - $25 per hour (USD), Salary commensurate with experience and education.Our generous benefits include:Eligibility to participate in our Teacher Housing programMedical Health Insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversaryDental & Vision insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversaryFree snacks and beveragesFree CPR/First Aid training as well as other trainings throughout the year2 Paid Mental Health Days a yearAll Federal Holidays Paid, to include Juneteenth and MLK daySpecial Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel)403 B (comparable to 401K) retirement plan
Paid Time Off (PTO):5 weeks of PTO starting at year one 7 weeks after 2 years 8 weeks after 5 years *This total PTO includes several pre-scheduled breaks throughout the year:1 week Spring Break (March) 2 weeks Winter Break (December/January) 1 week Summer Break (July) *Flexible PTO for personal use:1 week in your first year (starts after first 30 days)2 weeks after your second year 3 weeks after your third year
Key ResponsibilitiesDaily Classroom Operations● Maintain at all times high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the school’s philosophy and curriculum approach.● Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects children’s interests and supports inquiry-based learning.● Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns.● Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage.● Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community.● Support and lead with Co- Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom.● Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements.
Curriculum and Documentation● Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.● Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible.● Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend children’s thinking and inquiry.● Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.● Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms.● Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice.
Family and Child Engagement● Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families.● Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of children’s growth and development.● Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives.● Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices.● Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise.
Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities● Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team.● Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement.● Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, training, and school events.● Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication.● Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards.● Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program.
Garden to Table Integration● Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate.● Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects.● Support children’s participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance.
Qualifications● Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.● Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting.● Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role.● Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning.● Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.● Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.
Core Competencies and Expectations● Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture.● Builds meaningful relationships with children and families.● Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.● Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively.● Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts.● Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.
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