Join the Mission-Driven Team at Lutheran Services Florida
Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is a leading provider of social services, envisioning a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant. With 60 programs across Florida, LSF is dedicated to transforming the lives of those in need. As a mission-driven organization, LSF offers a dynamic work environment where staff members can grow and make a meaningful impact.
About the Role: Early Years Teacher
We are seeking a talented and compassionate Early Years Teacher to join our team as a lead educator in our Head Start and Early Head Start programs. As an Early Years Teacher, you will play a vital role in planning and implementing educational activities for pre-school aged children or infants/toddlers. You will be responsible for creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment that fosters social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan, develop, and implement daily lesson plans that provide for educational and enrichment activities for pre-school age children or infants and toddlers.
- Create and arrange classrooms into distinctive learning areas that promote an effective learning environment.
- Screen and assess children to determine developmental/educational needs and develop and implement individual education plans.
- Monitor meal and snack periods, classroom and restroom activities, and playground activities to ensure a safe environment for young children.
- Maintain accurate records of children's progress, complete required manual and computerized forms and reports, and initiate referrals to the Center Director as needed.
- Communicate with parents through parent conferences, written correspondence, and telephone to apprise them of child's progress, upcoming events, classroom activities, individual education plan changes, and other relevant information.
- Conduct health checks on children for health concerns and report to the Health Coordinator.
- Ensure lessons and classroom activities align with the Florida Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Standards and conduct Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten assessments as required.
- Maintain a comprehensive and ongoing portfolio assessment for each child, including weekly observations, examples of the child's work, and a developmental assessment.
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee field trips for assigned children and order supplies and equipment for special needs children.
Requirements and Qualifications:
- Education: Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related degree.
- Experience: Two years of experience teaching Head Start, Early Head Start, pre-school, or kindergarten-age children.
- Bilingual: Preferred in English/Spanish or English and other languages present in the local area.
- Skills:
- Working knowledge of brain development and its impact on early learning.
- Working knowledge of child development from birth to age five for typical and atypical children.
- Working knowledge of culture and practices for early childhood.
- Working knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for early childhood.
- Working knowledge of behavior modification theories and practices relating to early childhood development.
- Skill in verbal communication with infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children.
- Ability to plan, organize, and supervise the work of others.
- Ability to implement routine care for infants and toddlers in a responsive environment.
What We Offer:
At LSF, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Competitive Salary: A salary range that reflects your experience and qualifications.
- Medical, Dental, and Vision: Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Teladoc: 24/7 online access to doctors.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal and professional challenges.
- Employer-Paid Life Insurance: 1x salary.
- 13 Paid Holidays + 1 Floating Holiday: Time to relax and recharge.
- Generous PTO Policy: Starting at 16 working days a year.
- 403(b) Retirement Plan: With 3% discretionary employer match or 3% student loan repayment reimbursement.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Opportunities for professional growth and development.
Why Work for LSF?
At LSF, we:
- Embrace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: In all business practices.
- Offer Growth Opportunities: Explore areas of interest within the organization.
- Provide a Dynamic Work Environment: Collaborative and supportive team.
- Make a Meaningful Impact: Transforming the lives of those in need.
Take the Next Step:
Are you ready to join our mission-driven team and make a difference in the lives of young children and their families? Apply now and let's discuss how you can become a vital part of our success story.
Apply Now
Apply Now