The Hampshire College Early Learning Center, an innovative, Reggio Emilia-inspired, College-affiliated early childhood education program, is accepting applications for a preschool assistant teacher.

Under the supervision of the director of the early learning center (ELC) and in collaboration with lead teachers, the preschool assistant teacher will implement a stimulating, innovative and developmentally appropriate preschool program by supporting classroom routines, children's interests and classroom curriculum. The preschool assistant teacher and lead teachers spend each day in the classroom facilitating inquiry approaches to learning that provoke thought and inspire playful discovery. They will take part in extensive documentation and regular reflection upon practice, and will share in all activities during the school year. Additional responsibilities will include maintaining safety of children at all times while allowing for independence and growth, supporting and demonstrating responsiveness to parent concerns and questions, and communicating daily with parents about their child. The assistant teacher will contribute to team meetings with classroom staff to ensure that curriculum supports the needs of the children and preschool program, and to ensure consistency within interactions with children and adults. The preschool co-teacher will attend professional development opportunities such as conferences, workshops, and school visits to develop knowledge and skills and disseminate information to other staff members. This position will provide modeling and supervision for student assistants on a daily basis.

A bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required. Qualified candidate must have a sound knowledge of child development and health, and  the learning activities appropriate for the three to five year age group; have a working knowledge of the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, negotiated curriculum and/or project approach; and  the skills necessary to engage in classroom management, curricular planning and parent communication. The ideal candidate should be an early childhood educator who is curious about the nature of learning and teaching, and seeks a co-researcher relationship with students, colleagues, and parents. A commitment to working with people from diverse backgrounds is essential. Candidate must have MA DEEC Teacher certification. This position requires the ability to lift a minimum of 25 pounds and be able to work occasional evenings and weekends for parent meetings and community-building events. Offer of employment is contingent upon a successful background check.

This benefited, 11-month, 36-hour per week team-teaching opportunity has an employment cycle of August 15 through July 15.  Hampshire College offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits package. Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, statement of educational philosophy, documentation of DEEC Lead Teacher certification, and three professional references via our website at https://jobs.hampshire.edu/

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