Head Child Development Teacher

About the Job

Position Overview

Under the direction of the Program Director, the Head Child Development Teacher (Job Code: 8744A2) provides oversight, routine training and guidance, and evaluation of teacher aides and teacher candidates in the classroom. Develops and implements daily lesson plans to support and advance physical, social, emotional, and intellectual competence of children. This includes maintaining an attractive, safe, and healthy learning environment that allows children's active participation, independent choices within the context of a structured curriculum meeting child care licensing standards. Establishes and maintains effective relationships with families and provides timely communication in regards to child's development progress and concerns. Assesses, identifies, and communicates with families level of accomplishment and needs for the individual child against the background of norms of attainment for a developmental stage and individual history.

This position will participate in staff development opportunities and support and advance the program's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
This position is based on the University of Minnesota Crookston campus at the Early Childhood Development Center. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures. This position reports to the Program Director, is a 100% position, and can choose to hold either a 12-month or 10-month appointment.

This is a 12 month position. The hours vary according to the needs of the program between 7:30 am - 5 pm.

Job Responsibilities

Teacher (80%)

Establishes and maintains an inclusive, professional and safe learning space for children of all backgrounds, identities, abilities and
developmental stages in compliance with MN DHS licensing, as well as relevant federal laws. Plan and execute a consistent daily visible schedule of routines and activities. Conduct daily checks of the environment; assign, monitor, and follow up on the health and safety of the children and ensure the supervision of
children are within sight and sound as per MN DHS Licensing (indoors and outdoors). Maintain and secure the confidentiality of information and records regarding staff, children, and families. Participate in on-going reflection (monthly and yearly) on evaluation of the program and personal professional development aligning with performance and job responsibilities. Plan and Implement emergent curriculum for children in a developmentally appropriate and inclusive environment. Use small groups, reflective practice, and observations when planning and implementation of learning experiences. Support the development of the child’s role as an integral member of their learning community through developing the child’s self-image and competence. Prepares materials required for daily instruction and classroom environment for the children.
 

Communication/Family Relationships (8 %)

Maintain an open verbal and written communication with parents regarding child development, behavior issues, parent education, and other child related issues. Regularly communicate parent, child, and/or staff issues with the Program Director (i.e., concerned parents, a child’s behavior problems, or an
employee’s performance issues). Regularly communicate and collaborate with fellow teachers.

Documentation and Assessment (5 %)

Assess the individual children’s learning and development. Maintain accurate documentation and anecdotal records on children. Review assessments and documentation of children’s learning to revisit, reflect, and extend emergent curriculum, investigations, and small group explorations. Update and extend documentation to reflect children’s work, processes, questions, and dialogues between teacher to child, child-to-child, with encounters, investigations and projects.

Supervising Student Staff (5 %)

Regularly communicate and collaborate in supporting the children’s overall healthy development.  May provide directions in the care, education, and supervision of children, including changing, toileting, feeding, naptime, and playground supervision. This also included preparation and cleanup of educational materials.

Supervising Lab Students (2 %)

Regularly communicate and collaborate in supporting the children’s overall healthy development. This includes assessments of lab activities implemented by the education student. May provide directions in the care, education, and supervision of children, including changing, toileting, feeding, naptime, and playground supervision. This also included preparation and cleanup of educational materials.

Qualifications

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Financial counseling services  Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

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