Lead Preschool Teacher, Play-Based Child-Centered Program
Overview
Lead a twos classroom at Chabad Garden School, owning the environment, materials, and emergent curriculum for up to 15 children. You will implement a play-based and child-centered approach inspired by Reggio Emilia and Montessori, turning observations into meaningful learning. Join a small, close-knit Jewish preschool where teachers have real autonomy and a director who partners with you. This role stands out for its professional respect, flexible scheduling, and support for staff families.
What You'll Do10
- 1Design and evolve a classroom environment with intentional materials that respond to children's interests and developmental needs, using Reggio Emilia and Montessori principles.
- 2Build emergent curriculum by documenting children's play, questions, and struggles, then introducing clay, paint, loose parts, and sensory materials to extend thinking.
- 3Guide children's independence in daily routines like meals, cleanup, and material use, trusting them to do increasingly more for themselves.
- 4Model calm, present teaching during play: observe, join when invited, ask questions, and introduce new materials without directing the play.
- 5Maintain clear, consistent boundaries while seeing behavior as communication, staying curious about the underlying needs.
- 6Collaborate with the director weekly to reflect on classroom dynamics, seek resources, and refine teaching strategies.
- 7Integrate Jewish life and traditions, including Shabbat and holidays, into daily activities, participating warmly and respectfully.
- 8Document and share children's learning with families through notes, photos, and conferences, building strong partnerships.
- 9Adapt the classroom layout and materials as children's interests shift, keeping the space thoughtful, engaging, and alive with learning.
- 10Support the physical demands of the role, including frequent movement to the floor and lifting young children as needed.
Requirements10
- 12+ years of experience in an early childhood classroom, strongly preferred.
- 2Previous lead teaching experience, strongly preferred.
- 3Strong understanding of child development and play-based learning.
- 4Ability to observe children closely and use those observations to shape curriculum and environment.
- 5Skill in extending children's play and thinking without taking over, using techniques from Reggio Emilia, Montessori, or emergent curriculum.
- 6Warm, nurturing demeanor with clear, consistent boundaries and curiosity about behavior as communication.
- 7Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field, preferred but not required.
- 8Ability to meet physical demands: getting up and down from the floor frequently, lifting and caring for young children.
- 9Comfort with Jewish life and traditions, or willingness to participate respectfully and learn.
- 10Strong communication and collaboration skills, especially with the director and families.
Salary Insight
$50 - $58k per year
Location
Required Skills
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