Independence was founded in 1978 by parents seeking a challenging education that would be strong in the academic areas, arts, foreign languages, and athletics. Today, the school occupies a 90-acre campus in the Pike Creek Valley (near Hockessin, Newark, and Wilmington, Cecil County, MD, and Southeast Chester County, PA), and features state of the art facilities and outdoor classrooms.
The Independence School, an independent day school welcoming children age 3 through 8th Grade, provides an exceptionally strong academic foundation and so much more. At Independence, students learn to think for themselves. They learn independence. Our school mission, beliefs, and core values guide us to ensure we offer students an unparalleled educational experience, opportunities for leadership and a welcoming community for the entire family.
We encourage you to learn more about our school. Please click the link below.
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Early Childhood Teacher
Direct Supervisor:
Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
FLSA:
Exempt
Type:
Full-Time Faculty Employee
The Early Childhood Teacher is a creative, passionate, and student-centered educator who demonstrates superior and current knowledge of early childhood education and best practices. This teacher is dedicated to fostering a love of learning while developing foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional growth. They elicit engaging, hands‑on, and meaningful learning experiences for all students.
Professional Attributes
High energy and enthusiasm with the ability to learn quickly, make an immediate impact, and implement new initiativesFlexibility and openness to work on a variety of assignmentsStrong communication and interpersonal skills, displaying the ability to connect and build relationships with employees, students, and parentsConfidence in professional aptitude with the ability to effectively convey skills and knowledgePositive team player with a strong desire to be an active, long-term participant in the growth of the SchoolSupports and aligns with the School’s philosophy, mission, values, and policiesCommitment to fostering and supporting a safe and healthy atmosphere and an inclusive communityDuties and Responsibilities
Develop and implement engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans that align with the School’s early childhood curriculum and developmental standardsSupport learning in foundational areas, including language and literacy, early math, science, social skills, and creative expression, using hands‑on, play‑based, and experiential methodsDifferentiate instruction and activities to meet the individual developmental, social, and emotional needs of all childrenObserve and assess children’s growth and learning through daily interactions, documentation, and various assessment tools, providing timely and constructive feedback to familiesCreate a nurturing, supportive, and stimulating classroom environment that fosters curiosity, independence, cooperation, and positive self-expressionIntegrate social‑emotional learning, character development, and problem‑solving skills into daily routines and activitiesCollaborate with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects, thematic units, and classroom experiencesCommunicate effectively with families, sharing updates on children’s progress, classroom activities, and milestonesParticipate in staff meetings, school‑wide events, and ongoing professional development to remain current with best practices in early childhood educationUtilize the School’s 90-acre campus as an extension of the classroom for outdoor exploration, nature‑based learning, and experiential activitiesPerform other duties as assignedSkills, Knowledge, and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or above in early childhood education or a related fieldAt least 2 years of experience teaching at the preschool level, preferably in Early Childhood or a similar age groupPossesses a strong understanding of child development and learning progressions to effectively support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth.Demonstrates an understanding of research‑based instructional practicesExcellent classroom management skills that promote a positive learning environmentStrong organizational and planning skills with attention to detailAptitude to learn new systems, software, and platforms, including student information systemsComfortable in a Windows environment and with Google Workspace/MS Office.High level of confidentiality and discretion12/15/25
The Independence School prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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