Early Childhood Educator The Pre-k Teacher provides leadership within the classroom to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment grounded in a Reggio Emilia–inspired philosophy. This role is responsible for curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, documentation of children’s learning, and fostering strong relationships with families. The Pre-k Teacher serves as a facilitator of child-led inquiry and a collaborative partner to colleagues while advancing the mission and values of Urban Sprouts. This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy and Assistant Head of Pedagogy. Compensation & Benefits: Pay Range: $21 - $25 per hour (USD), Salary commensurate with experience and education. Our generous benefits include: Eligibility to participate in our Teacher Housing program Medical Health Insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary Dental & Vision insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary Free snacks and beverages Free CPR/First Aid training as well as other trainings throughout the year 2 Paid Mental Health Days a year All Federal Holidays Paid, to include Juneteenth and MLK day Special Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel) 403 B (comparable to 401K) retirement plan Paid Time Off (PTO): 5 weeks of PTO starting at year one 7 weeks after 2 years 8 weeks after 5 years *This total PTO includes several pre-scheduled breaks throughout the year: 1 week Spring Break (March) 2 weeks Winter Break (December/January) 1 week Summer Break (July) *Flexible PTO for personal use: 1 week in your first year (starts after first 30 days) 2 weeks after your second year 3 weeks after your third year Key Responsibilities Daily Classroom Operations ● Maintain at all times high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the school’s philosophy and curriculum approach. ● Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects children’s interests and supports inquiry-based learning. ● Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns. ● Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage. ● Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community. ● Support and lead with Co- Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom. ● Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements. Curriculum and Documentation ● Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. ● Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible. ● Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend children’s thinking and inquiry. ● Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences. ● Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms. ● Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice. Family and Child Engagement ● Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families. ● Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of children’s growth and development. ● Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives. ● Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices. ● Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise. Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities ● Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team. ● Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement. ● Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, training, and school events. ● Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication. ● Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards. ● Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program. Garden to Table Integration ● Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate. ● Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects. ● Support children’s participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance. Qualifications ● Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. ● Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting. ● Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role. ● Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning. ● Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills. ● Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth. Core Competencies and Expectations ● Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture. ● Builds meaningful relationships with children and families. ● Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times. ● Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively. ● Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts. ● Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners. E04JI800ve1d409aft3 Compensation details: 21-25 Hourly Wage PI3b623afa1e45-25448-412440125c143e31-5e48-4549-b638-05792d185386