Teacher, Early Childhood Education

Summary

First Church Early Learning Center (FCELC), established in 1956 and NAEYC accredited, seeks a teacher to manage classrooms, implement emergent curriculum, maintain Office of Early Childhood and NAEYC standards, and communicate daily with parents. Hours range from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday‑Friday, varying by classroom needs.

• Coordinate and implement educational curriculum by developing classroom activities based on developmentally appropriate practices and early learning standards.
• Lead by example and encourage teaching team success through modeling and coaching.
• Plan individual and group age‑appropriate activities to actively engage children and promote social, cognitive, and emotional growth.
• Maintain frequent communication with parents through informal discussions, progress reports, and parent‑teacher conferences.
• Ensure all center policies and state regulations are met.
• Maintain a healthy classroom environment, including appropriate hygiene and cleanliness standards and child safety and security.
• Supervise teacher assistants and classroom volunteers, ensuring adherence to planned activities and safety standards.
• Maintain accurate records, forms, and files.
• Maintain a personal professional development plan to ensure continuous quality improvement.
• Manage classroom staff (teaching and assistant teachers) and oversee the creation and implementation of developmentally appropriate lesson plans.
• Use the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (ELDS) and the Connecticut Preschool Assessment Framework (PAF) as assessment and observation tools.

• Associate degree in early childhood education or a related field with a minimum of 30 credits in ECE (Bachelor’s preferred).
• Minimum of 2 years professional childcare experience (3‑5 years preferred).
• Strong oral and written communication skills and basic computer skills.
• High energy and ability to work well with staff, children, and parents, fostering a team environment.
• Strong understanding of child development.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Infant/child CPR and First Aid certification (will provide if not already certified).
• Must clear a full background check and pass health screening.
• Familiarity with the Connecticut Preschool Assessment Framework (PAF).
• Experience managing classroom staff and utilizing assessment tools such as ELDS and PAF.

• Medical and dental coverage.
• Pension plan (paid by staff).
• Paid sick time.
• Paid vacation time.
• 10 paid holidays.
• Paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s.
• Paid professional development time/on‑site training.
• Free childcare for staff children aged 3‑5.

For further information, please contact Kate Bodmer at First Church Early Learning Center: 860‑688‑4597.