Upk Teacher

**General Function**:
Provide clear directions for classroom activities and behavior expectations to children, ensuring a structured and organized environment. Work closely with Teacher Assistants to develop engaging lesson plans and activities that cater to the children's interests and developmental needs. Create a supportive atmosphere where children are encouraged to explore, learn, and achieve their goals. Offer praise and recognition for their accomplishments to boost self-esteem. Cultivate a sense of belonging by celebrating diversity, encouraging teamwork, and fostering inclusivity within the classroom community. Take time to build meaningful connections with both children and parents. Involve families in their children's learning journey by providing opportunities for them to participate in classroom activities, events, and discussions.

**ENTRY REQUIREMENTS**:

- Bachelor/Master Degree in Early Childhood
- BYS Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education (must maintain through employment)
- Previous professional experience working with children in daycare/camp or educational setting
- Must be able to relate to parents and coworkers on all levels of the socioeconomic structure in the community
- Must be in excellent health and be agile enough to do job as teacher of small children including lifting weights up to 40 lbs., kneel and sit on floor
- Must be willing to continually increase knowledge in field

**JOB REQUIREMENTS**:

- Responsible for implementing the Creative Curriculum as per NYS UPK regulations
- Knowledge and attention to all NYS UPK regulations and procedures
- Knowledge and use of ECERS, Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies Gold
- Generally responsible for the welfare, health and safety of all of the children in the group and for promoting their optimum social, educational, emotional and physical growth
- Must be prompt and regular in attendance, efficient in the use of time and consistent
- Makes ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child
- Must work harmoniously with the Director and maintain a positive attitude and teamwork with coworkers
- Must exhibit sound judgement and maturity
- Responsible for planning and executing a varied and creative program curriculum flexibly and independently
- Use of positive classroom management techniques that foster self-control and independence
- Lead and organize classroom and outdoor activities that stimulate all areas of growth
- Planning of field trips and special activities
- Maintain a safe, healthy and attractive environment conducive to learning and social interaction
- Maintain necessary records of children’s progress throughout the school year, the attendance records of children as well as other records required by coordinator
- Manage and lead the classroom including the teacher’s assistants and volunteers, enabling them to develop their skills within the classroom
- Attend staff meetings, workshops, conferences and training sessions to meet the mínimal mandated training requirement
- Develop cooperative relationships with parents
- Be open to new ideas and quality improvement
- Participate in scheduled parent conferences
- Plan opportunities for parent participation
- Help in cleaning and reorganizing of classroom and center
- Attends and participates in family nights, program activities
- Accept assignment from Director that remain within the general function of enhancing the program