UPK Teacher

JOB SUMMARY

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The UPK Teacher is responsible for the overall instruction, classroom management, and implementation of a high-quality, developmentally appropriate preschool program serving children ages 4–5. The UPK Teacher creates a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment that promotes school readiness and supports children's cognitive, language, physical, social-emotional, and creative development.

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The UPK Teacher provides instructional leadership within the classroom, supervises Assistant Teachers and classroom support staff, collaborates with families, and ensures compliance with New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations, New York State Education Department (NYSED) Universal Prekindergarten (UPK) requirements, and Malverne School District standards. The UPK Teacher serves as the primary point of contact for families and works closely with program leadership to support positive outcomes for children and families.

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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

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Curriculum & Instruction

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• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with the New York State Prekindergarten Learning Standards.
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• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of all children.
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• Create a structured, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment that promotes active learning and exploration.
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• Utilize evidence-based instructional practices to support school readiness and kindergarten transition.
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• Integrate literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, social-emotional learning, and creative arts into daily instruction.
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Child Assessment & Development

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• Conduct ongoing observations, developmental screenings, and authentic assessments.
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• Utilize assessment data to inform instruction and support individual learning goals.
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• Complete required assessment tools and developmental documentation in accordance with program requirements.
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• Collaborate with families and support staff regarding children's developmental progress and needs.
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• Support the identification and referral process for children who may require additional services.
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Classroom Leadership & Supervision

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• Supervise, mentor, and support Assistant Teachers and classroom support staff.
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• Delegate classroom responsibilities and foster a positive team environment.
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• Ensure classroom compliance with health, safety, supervision, and program requirements.
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• Maintain classroom schedules, routines, and procedures that support positive child outcomes.
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Family & Community Engagement

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• Establish and maintain positive relationships with families.
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• Communicate regularly with families through conferences, progress reports, and daily interactions.
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• Encourage family participation in classroom activities, family engagement events, and program initiatives.
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• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff.
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Program Operations & Compliance

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• Ensure compliance with OCFS regulations, health and safety requirements, and program policies.
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• Maintain accurate attendance records, assessment documentation, and child files in accordance with program requirements.
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• Participate in program monitoring activities, self-assessments, and quality improvement initiatives.
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• Collaborate with management on program planning, implementation, and continuous improvement efforts.
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• Participate in staff meetings, coaching sessions, and professional development opportunities.
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• Perform other duties as assigned by program leadership.
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QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

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Education

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• Certified Lead Teacher
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Must possess a valid New York State Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2) or an equivalent certification approved by NYSED.

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• Non-Certified Lead Teacher (Approved Study Plan)
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Must possess:

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A Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field; and

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Enrollment in an approved study plan leading to New York State Teacher Certification.

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Experience

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Minimum of two (2) years of experience teaching preschool-aged children preferred.

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Experience in a UPK, preschool, childcare, or early childhood education setting is preferred.

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Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

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• Strong knowledge of child development and early childhood best practices.
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• Knowledge of New York State Prekindergarten Learning Standards.
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• Effective classroom management and instructional leadership skills.
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• Strong organizational, time-management, and communication skills.
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• Ability to analyze assessment data and utilize results to inform instruction.
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• Ability to work effectively with children and families from diverse cultural, social, and developmental backgrounds.
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• Ability to support children with varying developmental and learning needs.
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• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and web-based educational platforms preferred.
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• Experience utilizing program quality assessment tools, including ECERS-3, ECERS-R, CLASS, and/or the Danielson Framework for Teaching preferred.
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• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
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CONTINGENT EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

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• Employment is contingent upon:
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• Clearance through OCFS, including Criminal History Review, New York State Central Register (SCR) clearance, and Sex Offender Registry clearance.
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• Medical clearance, including a physical examination, TB screening, and required immunizations in accordance with OCFS regulations.
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• Completion of Mandated Reporter Training within two weeks of hire.
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• Completion of CPR and First Aid Certification within three months of hire.
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• Completion of all required OCFS training, including a minimum of 15 hours of annual professional development.
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COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

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Paid School Breaks

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Paid Federal Holidays

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Sick Days

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Working Advantage Employee Discount Program

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Professional Development Opportunities

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Supportive Team Environment

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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

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This position requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and active engagement with children throughout the day. The role may require lifting up to 35 pounds and working in a classroom environment with moderate noise levels.

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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Malverne After School Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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NEXT STEPS

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Interested candidates should submit a cover letter describing their qualifications and interest in the position, along with an updated résumé, to hr@mackids.info. Qualified applicants will be contacted to schedule an initial screening interview. Final candidates will participate in additional interviews and reference checks before an offer of employment is extended.

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