Preschool Teacher

The Preschool Teacher will provide an educational program and environment which promotes learning and personal growth for students by easing them into organized education. You will teach students important elements that they will encounter soon after they enter school life. The preschool teacher works collaboratively with TK and kindergarten teachers to design learning experiences for all students to further develop literacy, mathematical, and behavioral skills; develop small group and individual lessons based upon the needs of each student; and prepare each student for their successful transition to all-day, every-day kindergarten. The goal is to contribute to the healthy mental and emotional development of the child, so they can more easily acclimate in the next level of education.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrates ability to enhance academic performance and support for implementation of the school district’s student achievement goals.
• Demonstrates competence in content knowledge appropriate to the teaching position.
• Demonstrates competence in planning and preparing for instruction.
• Uses strategies to deliver instruction that meets the multiple learning needs of students.
• Uses a variety of methods to monitor student learning.
• Demonstrates competence in classroom management.
• Engages in professional growth.
• Fulfills professional responsibilities established by the school district.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

• Plan, prepare and deliver lesson plans and instructional materials that facilitate active learning by developing schemes of work and tests that are in accordance with established procedures. Ensure classroom is prepared for activities.
• Instruct and monitor students in the use of learning materials and equipment by using relevant technology and a variety of learning materials and resources to support and differentiate instruction. Establish and communicate clear objectives for all learning activities.
• Manage student behavior in the classroom by establishing and enforcing rules and procedures. Discipline shall be maintained in accordance with the rules and disciplinary systems of the district.
• Encourage and monitor the progress of individual students and use information to adjust teaching strategies. Observe and evaluate student's performance and development, assign and grade class work, homework, tests and assignments. Provide appropriate feedback.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of students' progress and development, as well as update all necessary records accurately and completely as required by laws, district policies and school regulations. Prepare required reports on students and activities.
• Communicate necessary information regularly to students, colleagues and parents regarding student progress and student needs.
• Demonstrate preparation and skill in working with students from diverse cultural, economic and ability backgrounds.
• Encourage parent and community involvement, obtain information for parents when requested, promptly return phone calls and answer emails.
• Participate in department, school, district and parent meetings. Participate in appropriate professional activities, extracurricular activities such as social activities, sporting activities, clubs and student organizations as directed.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

An early childhood degree with a prekindergarten endorsement will be required for this position. Special Education Endorsement or ability to obtain. Minimum qualifications include a valid Iowa teaching certificate, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in education or acceptable content area. Must possess proper state certification and licensure for position. Employee is expected to demonstrate continued professional growth specific to the program(s).

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Strong written and verbal communication skills are critical to the success of this position. Must possess the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of individuals and groups from all levels of the organization, including staff, principals, and central administration. Communication will include individual to large group presentations as well as written communications and reports. Individual must have effective listening skills.

ANALYTICAL & REASONING SKILLS

Individual must have a solid background in instruction, assessment and curriculum, as well as have the ability to interpret data, which may be very complex and varied. Must be able to apply instructional strategies and link assessment data analysis to school improvement, curriculum, and professional development.

TECHNOLOGY SKILLS

Position requires the individual to be competent in a variety of methods in research and information gathering through technology. The ability to present and communicate through technology is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Normal office physical demands. May periodically have moderate physical demands and may be required to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Generally, employee works inside.