About GIRAFAS Play & Learn :
GIRAFAS Play & Learn is NYC’s first and only full-time, Montessori-inspired Portuguese immersion preschool, located in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. We proudly serve families interested in introducing Portuguese as a heritage or new language to their children. At GIRAFAS, we create a safe, nurturing environment where children develop a strong sense of identity and belonging through a community-centered approach. By blending Montessori principles with cultural immersion, we offer a holistic learning experience that nurtures each child’s unique potential and fosters a lifelong love of learning.
Why Join Us?
We offer a supportive work environment where your passion for early childhood education can thrive. Enjoy benefits like :
- Paid Time Off (PTO), Parental Leave, Tuition Reimbursement, and Professional Development Funding
- Bonuses, Commute Assistance, and Employee Discounts
- Compensation : $24.00–$42.00 per hour
Important Requirements
Fluency in Portuguese is required.Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the U.S.About the Position :
We are seeking an energetic, creative, and caring Infant / Toddler Head Teacher fluent in Portuguese to lead a classroom for children aged 10 to 36 months. In this full-time role (Monday to Friday, 9 : 00 am–5 : 00 pm) , you will create a nurturing, engaging, and safe environment for young learners while implementing a tailored Montessori curriculum. The ideal candidate will foster each child’s holistic development, guiding them toward independence and essential life skills. Join us in making a meaningful impact on young lives in a culturally rich and collaborative setting.
Key Responsibilities :
Curriculum and Child-Centered Support
Plan and implement a Montessori-based curriculum that meets the developmental needs and interests of children aged 10 to 36 months.Create a safe, nurturing classroom environment that encourages exploration, independence, and self-directed learning in alignment with Montessori principles.Provide individualized guidance and introduce tailored materials to support the development of essential life skills through hands-on activities.Design teacher-made materials to enrich the learning experience.Observe and assess each child’s progress, interests, and developmental milestones, maintaining accurate records to share with parents and staff.Classroom Management
Establish and maintain a harmonious and respectful classroom environment that fosters a sense of community.Set clear behavioral expectations and apply positive discipline strategies.Parent Engagement
Communicate regularly with parents to share updates on their child’s development and provide guidance for at-home learning support.Conduct parent-teacher conferences and provide weekly schedules and monthly newsletters.Collaboration and Professionalism
Collaborate with staff members to plan and implement Montessori materials and curriculum.Lead and mentor assistant teachers, fostering a collaborative and cohesive teaching environment.Participate in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and special school events (e.g., open houses and fundraisers, including some evening commitments).Ensure compliance with deadlines, policies, and procedures outlined in the employee handbook.Safety and Hygiene
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment following health and safety regulations, including proper hygiene practices.Clean and sanitize equipment and materials daily; securely store cleaning supplies out of children’s reach.Handle diaper changes with care and patience and support older toddlers during the potty-training process.Qualifications : Language Skills
Fluency in Portuguese (required).Proficiency in English at an academic level (preferred).Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (Birth to Second Grade) or a related field (required).Birth to Three Montessori certification (preferred).NYS Teacher Certification (a plus).Experience
Experience in teaching in an early childhood setting.Familiarity with Montessori principles (highly desirable).Additional Requirements
Must start the Infant / Toddler AMI, MACTE, or AMS Montessori Credential within the first year of employment.Current CPR / First Aid Certification or the willingness to obtain it.Must pass a full background check, fingerprinting, and medical clearance.Key Skills :
Strong understanding of child development and Montessori educational methods.Effective classroom management and leadership abilities.Excellent communication and collaboration skills with children, families, and colleagues.Creativity, adaptability, and proactive problem-solving skills.Highly organized with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.Ready to Make an Impact?
Join us in shaping the next generation of global citizens! Apply now and bring your talents to GIRAFAS Play & Learn.
Salary : $24 - $42
