Lead Toddler Educator

Our program is currently looking to hire an experienced Lead Educator to join our young toddler classroom team to work along side a tenured Co-Lead. Lead Educators are responsible for the daily operations of their classroom in terms of logistics, caregiving, and curriculum; they work alongside Co-Lead Educators, Assistant Educators, and Support Staff. We are seeking educators who value children’s perspectives, approach interactions with positivity, and are experienced in the process of observation, reflection, and documentation.

People who are drawn to collaboration, curiosity & intentionality, and who enjoy forming meaningful relationships with the children and families in their care typically thrive in our community. Educators in this position also get the opportunity to mentor Assistants and Support Staff, making this a great fit for those who are looking to develop their leadership skills.

• AA Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• 2 or more years experience as a Lead Educator working with toddlers
• Experience engaging with emergent curriculum and the process of observation, reflection and pedagogical documentation
• Pass a Background Check
• CPR/First Aid Certification
• Valid STARS

• $25-$27 DOE
• 401(k) matching/ Retirement Plan
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave

Please submit a resume and cover letter to the director Matt McKenzie at preschool

Applicants will participate in phone screening and an in-person interview which includes work in the classroom as well as work sample review. If invited for the in person interview please be prepared to share an example of pedagogical documentation.

PRLC Preschool is a licensed childcare facility that serves children aged 12 months to 6 years and has been a part of the Greenwood/Phinney Ridge community since 1968. Our school philosophy and curriculum focus on respect, authenticity, and true child-led learning. We are heavily inspired by the ideas of Magda Gerber, Emmi Pikler, and the Reggio-Emilia region of Italy – and this is reflected in the day to day life of our children & teachers.

On any given day you might find our students on a neighborhood walk, purchasing ingredients for a project at the local market, exploring parks and natural spaces throughout the region, or playing on-site in their classrooms & playgrounds. Our teachers select materials and design learning activities based on sensitive observation of the children’s current theories & ideas – we spend time reflecting on what we see and hear throughout the classroom and then create opportunities for children to expand on the ideas they are exploring.

Ultimately, we view educators as facilitators, explorers, and supportive models for the children in their care.

When it comes to our staff, we believe that the best way to ensure adults treat children with respect and authenticity is to do the same for them. Our educators are highly valued by school administration and the community alike. We work hard to ensure that all staff are able to take sufficient personal time, meet their physical & mental health needs, grow professionally as leaders, and support themselves and their families.

We are partnered with and housed in Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, which is a reconciled ministry. Our program is LGBT+ affirming and rooted firmly in the school of anti-bias education.

Together, we are empowering exceptional education.