Preschool Educator​/Teacher – Early Language and Literacy Initiative; ELLI

Preschool Educator/Teacher – Early Language and Literacy Initiative (ELLI®)

Location:

Norwalk and Fairfield University Campus Full-Time | Year-Round $20.19 – $22.60 per hour

Join a Team That Changes Children's Lives

The Early Language and Literacy Initiative (ELLI®) is an innovative, research-based early childhood program dedicated to closing the early learning achievement gap through play-based education, language development, literacy, and STEAM experiences.

At ELLI, we believe educators are professionals who deserve support, respect, and opportunities for growth. Our preschool teachers work collaboratively to create engaging learning environments where children develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.

Why Join ELLI?

Comprehensive Benefits Package

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• $50,000 Life Insurance Policy
• Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts
• 403(b) Retirement Plan

Generous Paid Time Off

• Vacation Time
• Personal Days
• Sick Time
• Paid Holidays

Professional Growth

• Paid professional development
• Coaching and mentorship
• Career advancement opportunities
• Ongoing training in early childhood education, literacy, and child development

What You'll Do

• Be a part of a consistent Team Staffing — Classrooms are staffed with 3 teachers at all times, supporting collaborative planning and shared responsibility for children's care and education.
• Create and implement engaging, play-based learning experiences that promote early literacy, language development, social-emotional growth, and STEAM exploration.
• Foster a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom where every child feels valued and supported.
• Build positive, responsive relationships with children and their families.
• Observe, assess, and document children's developmental progress.
• Collaborate with teaching team members to implement ELLI's research-based curriculum.
• Maintain an organized, stimulating classroom environment that encourages curiosity and creativity.
• Support children's daily routines, including meals, toileting, transitions, outdoor play, and rest time.
• Communicate regularly with families through daily updates, conferences, family events, and workshops.
• Ensure compliance with NAEYC standards and Connecticut Office of Early Childhood licensing regulations.

Requirements

Qualifications

Required

• Associate's Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education

OR

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field with at least 12 credits in Child Development or Early Childhood Education identified by OEC
• Minimum one (1) year of professional preschool or early childhood classroom experience

Preferred

• Experience teaching preschool-aged children (3–5 years)
• Knowledge of Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS)
• Experience implementing developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum
• Strong classroom management and communication skills
• Experience partnering with families
• Bilingual Spanish/English

Our Ideal Candidate

You are passionate about early childhood education and believe children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. You are creative, patient, collaborative, and committed to helping every child build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Join ELLI and become part of a dedicated team making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families throughout the Norwalk community. Grow your career while helping young learners thrive every day.