Early Childhood Education Specialist

Description

We believe in the potential of every child, family, and employee who engages with our child development program. Our commitment is to offer support, assistance, and encouragement to help them thrive in a welcoming environment where everyone finds the belief and resources they need to succeed.

Mission Statement

Our aim is to provide high-quality care in an educational setting that nurtures children's development in community engagement, cultural and linguistic diversity, creativity, literacy, numeracy, and science. We focus on supporting low-income families working toward economic independence through employment, education, or job training, while also offering meaningful work and learning opportunities for staff interested in early childhood education and developmentally appropriate practices.

Position Responsibilities

As part of our team, you will play a crucial role in fostering a safe, supportive, and nurturing learning environment for children. Your main responsibilities will include:

• Creating a Safe and Healthy Learning Space
• Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety.
• Maintain a secure environment in the classroom and playground.
• Immediately report any accidents, incidents, or unusual occurrences to the Program Director or Site Manager.
• Follow security procedures and conduct daily health checks for all children.
• Assist with pickup and drop-off procedures, ensuring smooth transitions for children and families.
• Promoting Physical and Intellectual Development
• Engage positively with children, fostering healthy teacher-child relationships.
• Collaborate with teachers to plan lessons and activities that are developmentally appropriate.
• Lead circle time and contribute ideas for field trips and activities.
• Support remote distance learning and provide staff coverage when needed.
• Supporting Social and Emotional Growth
• Use positive guidance techniques to model and encourage appropriate behavior in children.
• Document and report any necessary observations on children's development to the Program Director or Site Manager.
• Work with teachers to set developmentally appropriate expectations for each age group.
• Assist in providing inclusive care and documentation for children with special needs.
• Building Strong Relationships with Families
• Establish positive, respectful relationships with parents and guardians, honoring their cultural backgrounds.
• Support Parent-Teacher conferences and encourage family participation in the program.
• Ensuring a Well-Run Program
• Maintain classroom supplies and materials.
• Implement lesson plans and complete Developmental Profiles (DRDP) as required.
• Participate in team collaboration, communicating effectively with both staff and parents.
• Be flexible with daily routines, making the most of teachable moments.
• Model professional behavior for both children and staff.
• Follow requirements for nutrition services programs as outlined by state and federal guidelines.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and workshops as needed.
• Upholding Professionalism
• Adapt to schedule changes and collaborate with the team to meet staffing needs.
• Promote the center's values and objectives.
• Work towards upgrading your Teacher or Associate Permit.
• Maintain confidentiality about children, families, and staff members.
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable going up and down stairs without limitations.
• In good health and able to pass a physical examination.
• Must meet required standards for fingerprinting clearance, negative TB test, and First Aid/CPR certification.
  
  

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; experience in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development is a plus.
• Willingness to take 12-21 units in Early Childhood Education/Child Development courses to meet certification requirements.
• Bilingual in Spanish (able to speak, read, and write) is preferred.
  
  

Employment Type: Full-Time