Early Childhood Educator

Department: Early Childhood Learning Center
Reports to: Early Childhood Learning Center Director
Classification: Non-Exempt
Job status: Full-time

Mission

Maȟpíya Lúta embraces Lakȟota and Jesuit Catholic values and teachings to grow as a community
through education, spiritual formation, Lakȟota language, art, and culture.

Job Summary:
The Early Childhood Educator is responsible for creating a nurturing and educational
environment for children aged 0-5 years. This role involves planning and implementing
age-appropriate activities, maintaining a safe and clean classroom, and fostering positive
relationships with children, parents, and colleagues. Daycare center will be fully Lakota
immersion. Must demonstrate the ability to teach/communicate in the Lakota Language.

Duties & Responsibilities:
Curriculum Development and Implementation:

• Plan, prepare, and implement daily educational activities and programs that promote

the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of children.

• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet the varying needs and

interests of children.

• Communicating with children/parents in Lakota is preferred.
• Classroom Management:

• Create a positive, safe, and stimulating environment for children.
• Manage the classroom effectively, ensuring that children are engaged and learning.
• Supervise children at all times, maintaining a secure and clean environment.

• Child Development Observation and Assessment:
• Observe and document children’s progress and behavior.
• Communicate any developmental concerns to the Daycare Center Director and

• Parent Communication and Involvement:
• Maintain open, friendly, and cooperative relationships with each child’s family.
• Provide regular updates to parents about their child’s progress and daily activities.
• Encourage parental involvement in the daycare’s activities and programs.

• Health and Safety:
• Ensure that the daycare’s health and safety policies are followed at all times.
• Administer first aid and medication as needed and as authorized by parents.
• Maintain a clean and organized classroom, including sanitizing toys and equipment.

• Professional Development:
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Stay current with early childhood education best practices and regulatory

requirements.

Qualifications:
Education:

• A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development,

or a related field is preferred.

• Experience:

Prior experience working with young children in a daycare, preschool, or similar

• Certifications:

CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hiring).

• Early Childhood Education certification (if required by state regulations).

• Skills:

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Patience, creativity, and a passion for working with young children.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and parents.
• Must be actively learning Lakota Language or willing to take the Wóiwahoye

Gluótkuŋzapi Lakota Language Proficiency classes.

• Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry children and equipment up to 50 pounds. Ability to sit on the floor, bend,
kneel, and stand for extended periods. Ability to participate in physical activities with children,
including outdoor play.

• Working Conditions:

• The position is based in a daycare center, with both indoor and outdoor environments.

• The role requires a high level of energy and enthusiasm to engage with young

children.

To Apply:

Send completed application and resume to:

Brenda Bad Heart Bull, VP of HR

Mahpiya luta/ Red Cloud

100 Mission Drive, Pine Ridge SD 57770

brendabhb@mahpiyaluta.org

Starting wage: $15.00Hr.