Team Leader (Jefferson Head Start)

EPIC Early Learning is currently seeking a dedicated and experienced Preschool Team Leader to join our team. As a private, nonprofit organization, EPIC has been providing early childhood educational services to children and families in Central Washington for over 35 years. Our mission is to empower children to reach their full potential through nurturing relationships, engaging experiences, and high-quality education.

The Preschool Team Leader will be responsible for creating a positive and enriching learning environment for children in the Early Childhood Program. You will collaborate with a team of educators and support staff to develop and implement a comprehensive curriculum that promotes school readiness and fosters the social, emotional, and cognitive development of each child.

At EPIC Early Learning, we value the unique potential of each child and strive to provide an inclusive and engaging learning experience. We are looking for passionate individuals who are committed to making a positive impact on children's lives.

Requirements

1. Associate of Arts in Early childhood Education or a related Field*

2. Childcare Basics 30 hours STARS training

3. Minimum of 2 years of experience in a preschool setting

3. Knowledge of childhood development principles and best practices in early childhood education

4. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with children, families and colleagues

5. Ability to create and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum

6. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team

6. Patience, flexibility, and a passion for working with young children

7. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant educational technology

* Candidates who do not meet the minimum education requirement would need to enroll in a higher education institution towards an AA in ECE, be on a Professional Development Plan with a confirmed deadline. 

Responsibilities

• Create and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans that align with the preschool curriculum and promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development
• Establish and maintain a safe and nurturing classroom environment that supports the well-being and growth of each child
• Provide individualized instruction and support to meet the diverse needs of all students, including those with disabilities and English language learners
• Collaborate with parents and families to build strong partnerships and involve them in their child's learning journey
• Schedule and conduct parent conferences and home visits
• Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor children's progress and use the data to inform instructional strategies and individualized plans
• Plan and facilitate engaging learning experiences that promote curiosity, exploration, and a love for learning
• Foster the social-emotional development of children by promoting positive behavior supports and facilitating conflict resolution
• Be committed to characterizing a culture of safety within our centers, playgrounds, buses and anywhere that children may be present. Be familiar with and encourage EPICs culture of "See Something, Say Something".

Benefits

·         Medical/Dental/ Vision Plans

·         Sick Leave (5 hours per payroll)

·         Annual Leave (4 hours per payroll)

·         Paid Holidays (9)

·         Seedling Scholarship Available

·         Employee Assistance Program

·         Basic Life Insurance

·         403 B (Employer match after 1 year or 1,000 hours)

Pay Level: $23.23 to $27.41 Hourly (9-month position)

Please note: This position is available for the 2024-2025 program year, with the first day of employment scheduled for August 20, 2024.

Conditions of Employment:

1. Prior to employment, complete a pre-employment drug screen, TB skin test by an EPIC approved healthcare provider at no cost to the employee.
2. Pre-employment basic physical by an EPIC healthcare provider (obtain within (30) days of employment and no cost to the employee).
3. Must pass an initial and periodic background check through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF).
4. Provide proof of MMR vaccination and/ or resistance to Measles, Mumps & Rubella.
5. Current Food Handlers card (obtain the training within 30 days of employment).
6. Current First Aid/CPR card (obtain within 30 days of employment).
7. Complete Childcare Basics 30 hours STARS training within 3 months of hire
8. Meet the minimum education requirements within the timeframe as stated in the performance standards.
9. Complete Child Abuse and Neglect training and all other mandated training.
10. CEO Approval.