The Child Study Center, a campus-based laboratory preschool, offers a play based, emergent curriculum designed to nurture childrens social, emotional, cognitive and physical development. To this end, we offer a modified, open-structure classroom concept in which the schedule, routines, staff, classroom activity areas, and presentation of materials are highly organized but flexible enough to meet the individual needs of each developing child within the context of the whole group. We carefully and thoughtfully construct aesthetically pleasing learning environments and experiences to tap into childrens curiosity, engage the whole child, and maintain a balanced, safe, healthy learning environment. We encourage the involvement of families and strengthening the relationships between children, families, and community.

The philosophy that is the cornerstone of our core beliefs, is that children are inherently good and capable. Although all children follow their individual developmental trajectory, there are certain patterns of development that follow a predictable sequence and both the environment and support from skillful teachers can exert tremendous influence on the childs development. Through their play, children expand their imagination, extend their creativity, and develop problem solving skills. Play provides opportunities for children to navigate social relationships, test hypotheses about materials, develop spatial awareness, practice maintaining attention, and extend critical thinking skills. Play is the work of the child!

Support one infant/toddler and two preschool classrooms, maintain curriculum materials, and manage other duties as assigned. Assist teaching teams throughout the childs school day as needed. The Float Teacher is committed to the process of creating and providing high-quality learning environments for young children and their families. The Float Teacher is qualified with experience and education under the MA Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) for a Teacher position. The candidate must be a positive, caring, and creative team member dedicated to planning and implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences that allow for children to explore, learn, and grow in meaningful ways.

This is an Academic Year position, Full Time, Monday Friday, 7:30am-2:30pm. The salary range will be provided upon receipt of application. Pay rate will depend on experience and qualifications. Excellent benefits.

• Work in classrooms to assist teachers in the implementation of developmentally appropriate classroom practices that support childrens physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs and development.
• Float between classrooms, as needed, to assist with teacher breaks and teacher absences.
• Maintain and organize curriculum materials and supplies for the Center in a safe, clean and orderly fashion and support an innovative, emergent curriculum model with colleagues.
• Develop relationships with all children in the Center.
• Treat each child with dignity, respect, and appreciation for his/her cultural background.
• Ensure the safety of each child, in the classroom, on the playground, and in common areas.
• Meet the individual and group needs of the children in care.
• Establish and maintain relationships of cooperation and respect with co-workers, supervisors, children, and families.
• Interface with constituents of the Center, demonstrating a knowledge of child development and early childhood education.
• Support and maintain high-quality classroom standards
• Assist Teachers, as needed, in supervision of Team Teachers, Student Interns, Student Teachers, and Classroom volunteers.
• Attend designated staff, planning, and other ad hoc meetings.
• Take part in annual set-up of classroom at beginning of school year and annual curriculum/classroom/building inventory at close of school year.
• Create annual curriculum order at the end of each school year.
• Engage in various professional activities in Child Psychology and Early Childhood Education.
• Attend relevant workshops and seminars
• Substitute at front desk and assist with office tasks as needed
• Train Student Teachers and supervise research as needed

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to be considered for employment:

• Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• MA Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) Preschool Teacher Certification OR coursework/experience that meets minimum requirements for EEC Teacher qualification.
• Minimum of 2 years relevant experience with young children in a professional setting
• Fluency in English language.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail.
• Physical capacity to care for young children, including lifting children, sitting on the floor with children, climbing step-stools, lifting and re-shelving curriculum materials, storing and organizing classroom equipment, setting up tables and chairs for research and visiting classes
• Proficiency with computers and basic software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Spreadsheets, Google Calendar, etc
• Able to effectively communicate with children, families and co-workers.
• Able to react quickly in an emergency, bending, lifting, going up and down stairs quickly, and moving quickly in general, when needed
• Recent physical exam determining good health, stating no physical restrictions, and meeting all EEC requirements
• Ability to work effectively in an inclusive, culturally diverse environment

All employees hired after August 2, 2021 are required to upload proof of vaccination and booster against COVID?19, subject to approved medical or religious exemptions or disability accommodations.

• Extremely friendly and supportive management and co-workers. Excellent working environment.
• Directly reports to Faculty Director and Lead Teachers.

• Generous paid time off
• Following one year of employment, Wellesley College will contribute up to 10.5% towards your 403B plan for eligible employees
• Resources to navigate student loan forgiveness
• Free use of the athletic/fitness facilities, including onsite fitness classes
• Free on-site parking in an enclosed parking garage

All employees hired after August 2, 2021 are required to upload proof of vaccination and booster against COVID?19, subject to approved medical or religious exemptions or disability accommodations.