Pre K Certified Teacher

About the University
Since 1906, the University of West Georgia (UWG) has been a leading residential, doctoral comprehensive university located on 645 acres, 40 miles west of Atlanta. UWG offers more than 100 programs across 86 fields of study, including business, computing, nursing, education, STEM, communication, digital media, social sciences, and the fine and performing arts. The university is committed to innovative academic programs, a student‑centered business model, and community engagement.

UWG serves over 16,000 students and has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for its institutional commitment to public service.

Job Summary
The Lead Teacher will serve in UWG’s Bright From the Start Pre‑K program within the Center for Excellence Early Learning Center. A recent graduate of UWG (no more than three years beyond graduation) who is pursuing a Master’s degree at UWG and holds a free and clear T‑4 certification from the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) is required. The position is a 10‑month, salary‑based contract funded by a Georgia Lottery Project Pre‑K grant.

Responsibilities include developing and delivering developmentally appropriate instruction, collecting and evaluating student data, maintaining a positive classroom environment, and coordinating with parents, faculty, and student teachers.

• Plan and provide developmentally appropriate instruction for Pre‑K children.
• Gather and evaluate academic and socio‑emotional data in accordance with grant guidelines.
• Create and sustain a positive, welcoming classroom culture through routines, procedures, and classroom management systems.
• Supervise Pre‑K students to ensure their safety during school hours and off campus.
• Serve as mentor/co‑operating teacher to the assistant teacher and UWG Student Teachers, carrying out responsibilities outlined by the University and the College of Education.
• Maintain records and complete documentation, including lesson planning, state assessment checklists, student information, and portfolios.
• Communicate with parents via newsletters, emails, telephone calls, and the online communication platform; provide professional feedback to teacher assistants and student teachers.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education or a dual degree in Elementary Education/Special Education from UWG.
• Valid and current PSC certification (T‑4).
• Recent graduate of UWG, no more than three years post‑graduation.
• Currently pursuing a Master’s degree at UWG.

• 0–3 years of credible teaching experience.
• Previous experience working with Pre‑K to Kindergarten children.

• Proficient verbal and written communication skills.
• Flexible and adaptable to change.
• Ability to design and implement instructional plans using Georgia state standards.
• Basic computer skills.

Salary: $43,592 annually, paid monthly. Eligible for UWG’s total rewards package, including health, dental, vision plans, Wellness programs, retirement options through the Georgia Teachers Retirement System (TRS), optional retirement program, voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) plans, 13 paid holidays, paid time‑off accruals, tuition assistance, employee assistance program, and discounts through the Perks at Work program.

1601 Maple Street, Carrollton, GA 30118. Faculty and staff are expected to be physically present on campus as needed.

Offers are contingent upon completion of a background investigation, including criminal background check, reference checks, and, if applicable, a credit check and pre‑employment drug test. All conditions are subject to federal and state laws and the University System of Georgia policies.

UWG is an equal employment, equal access, and equal educational opportunity institution. It is committed to recruiting, hiring, training, promoting, and educating persons without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status, in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.

Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. UWG aligns with the USG Statement of Core Values and supports Freedom of Expression as outlined in Board Policy 6.5.

The mission of UWG is to enable students, faculty, and staff to realize their full potential through academic engagement, supportive services, professional development, and a caring, student‑centered community.