Nature Preschool Teacher

Job Summary – About the Role

Deliver high quality recreation services for residents, visitors and the St. Charles community by adhering to the District’s safety and administrative policies and procedures.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

This position is well suited for someone with a pleasant personality who is professional, enthusiastic, dedicated, patient and productive. Should have an affinity for working with children. Can work and communicate effectively with a diverse group of people, including children, parents and other park district staff. Be willing and able to work outside in a variety of weather conditions and evenings as needed.

Required: Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Education, Natural Resources, Early Childhood Education, or Biological sciences, or the equivalent in other work or experience. Teaching experience preferred. Must have a basic knowledge of native ecosystems and ability to identify flora and fauna. Maintain Mandated Reporter and First Aid/CPR/AED certifications or obtain certifications within 30 days of hire.

Essential Functions of the Position

Park District Cornerstones

• Follow all departmental safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of Park District’s safety and risk management program.
• Work cooperatively and collaboratively with residents, colleagues, the public, PDRMA and other agencies or organizations as delegated.
• Recommends improvements and efficiencies to better accomplish individual and district goals in the best interests of the St. Charles Park District community.
• Comply with park district policies and administrative procedures.

Responsibilities

Under the direction and supervision of the Nature Programs Supervisor, the Nature Preschool Teacher shall complete all assigned duties to the best of their abilities, offering suggestions of better ways to accomplish jobs and be ever mindful of the best interests of the St. Charles Park District and of fellow employees. This position requires extensive knowledge and ability to:

• Possess and exhibit the desire to work with children and the ability to interact with children in a positive and safe manner throughout the seasons in all types of weather and terrain.
• Work collaboratively with co-teacher(s) by developing and executing age-appropriate curriculum activities.
• Serve as Park District representative, provide leadership and work effectively with the program participants and parents.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Work with parents, resolve problems and deal with individuals and situations in a respectful, positive, sensitive and mature manner.
• Assist with development of goals and objectives for the Acorns to Oaks Program.
• Demonstrate knowledge of developmental learning progressions and the ability to assess children’s needs.
• Follow department protocols and Park District policies.
• Be timely and accurate with paperwork.
• Prepare newsletters, calendars, and activity plans and distribute to parents.
• Maintain inventories of supplies and instructional materials and work with supervisor to acquire supplies as needed.
• Apply appropriate positive discipline techniques with children.
• Ensure the safety of all program participants by following Park District Safety Guidelines.
• Attain CPR, AED and First Aid certification.
• Prepare classroom at the beginning of the year and close down the classroom at the end of the year.
• Perform first aid, AED and CPR and execute emergency procedures as necessary.
• Attend weekend and evening trainings and/or orientations as required.
• Participate, when possible, in center wide planning, meetings, initiatives, and events.

Marginal Functions of the Position

• Perform other related duties and/or special projects as assigned.
• Lift or move preschool equipment and materials as needed.
• Perform light custodial duties as needed.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

EEO Statement and Accommodations

The St Charles Park District is an equal opportunity employer under all state and federal laws and regulations. The job responsibilities are subject to accommodations pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you require assistance or accommodation with the application process, please contact the Business Department at 630-584-1055.

The Park District offers the following benefits to all Part-Time Category III employees:

• District Incentives
  • Paid Training
  • Discounts for Programs