About the Role:

The VPK Teacher plays a critical role in fostering the early development and educational foundation of preschool-aged children within the Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program. This position is dedicated to creating a nurturing, safe, and stimulating learning environment that supports the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth of young learners. The teacher will implement age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with state VPK standards, ensuring each child is prepared for kindergarten success. Collaboration with families, colleagues, and community resources is essential to support each child's individual needs and promote a positive learning experience. Ultimately, the VPK Teacher contributes to shaping confident, curious, and capable children ready to embark on their formal education journey.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.
• Valid Florida Department of Education VPK certification or eligibility to obtain certification.
• Experience working with preschool-aged children in an educational or childcare setting.
• Knowledge of early childhood development principles and age-appropriate teaching strategies.
• Ability to pass background screening and meet all state-mandated health and safety requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development.
• Experience with diverse classroom settings and inclusive teaching practices.
• Training in specialized instructional methods such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia approaches.
• Strong communication skills for effective family engagement and collaboration.
• First Aid and CPR certification.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans that meet VPK curriculum standards and support all areas of child development.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and positive social interactions among children.
• Observe, assess, and document each child's progress and development, using this information to tailor instruction and communicate effectively with parents and guardians.
• Collaborate with families, school staff, and community partners to support children's learning and address any developmental or behavioral concerns.
• Maintain compliance with all state regulations and licensing requirements related to early childhood education and VPK program standards.

Skills:

The VPK Teacher utilizes strong instructional skills to implement lesson plans that engage young learners and promote developmental milestones. Effective communication skills are essential for interacting with children, families, and colleagues to foster a collaborative educational environment. Observation and assessment skills enable the teacher to monitor each child's progress and adapt teaching methods to meet individual needs. Organizational skills are important for maintaining accurate records, managing classroom resources, and ensuring compliance with program standards. Additionally, empathy and patience are critical interpersonal skills that support positive relationships and a nurturing classroom atmosphere.