Primary Function/General Purpose of Position  

The Teacher I supports the daily care, supervision, and development of young children in a safe, nurturing, clean, organized, and engaging classroom environment. This role assists in implementing age-appropriate learning activities, maintaining a structured classroom routine, and promoting positive social and emotional development. The Teacher I works closely with other teachers and center leadership to ensure a safe environment, support children’s individual needs, and maintain positive relationships with families while following all licensing, health, and safety guidelines. 

Essential Job Functions  

• Plan and implement age-appropriate educational activities and classroom experiences that support children’s developmental growth. 

• Supervise children during daily routines including play, meals, learning activities, and rest periods to ensure safety and engagement. 

• Maintain open communication with parents and families regarding children’s development, progress, and classroom activities. 

• Support classroom operations by coordinating with the Program Teacher, Teacher Assistants, and Classroom Aides while maintaining required staff-to-child ratios. 

• Prepare and organize educational materials and learning environments to support classroom instruction and activities. 

• Promote children’s health and safety by following center policies, administering medications as authorized, and documenting incidents as required. 

• Maintain classroom supplies and coordinate food and materials needed for daily activities. 

• Respond professionally to parent concerns and support service recovery efforts to maintain positive family relationships. 

Licensing/Certification 

First Aid and CPR certification in adult and pediatrics (required within state specific timeline)   

Serve Safe Food Handler certification from the Department of Health (preferred, may be required per Department of Health requirements by state)   

Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate (preferred) 

Education 

High school diploma or GED (required)  

Associates degree in Early Childhood Education or similar field (preferred)  

Work Experience 

1 year experience in Early Childhood Education (required)  

Successfully meets all state requirements and successfully completes all required background screenings for child care associates. 

Training 

State approved Medication Administration Training (required within state specific timeline) 

State approved Daily Health Observation Training (required within state specific timeline) 

Skills 

• Knowledge of early childhood development principles and developmentally appropriate practices. 

• Knowledge of state child care licensing regulations and health and safety standards. 

• Strong classroom management and child guidance skills. 

• Ability to assist with curriculum planning and classroom organization. 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills when working with children, families, and staff. 

• Ability to mentor and support less experienced classroom staff. 

• Organizational and time-management skills to maintain classroom structure and documentation requirements. 

• Ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and maintain a safe learning environment.