Pre-k Teacher

Early Childhood Educator
The Pre-k Teacher provides leadership within the classroom to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment grounded in a Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy. This role is responsible for curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, documentation of children's learning, and fostering strong relationships with families. The Pre-k Teacher serves as a facilitator of child-led inquiry and a collaborative partner to colleagues while advancing the mission and values of Urban Sprouts. This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy and Assistant Head of Pedagogy.
Compensation & Benefits:
Pay Range: $21 - $25 per hour (USD), Salary commensurate with experience and education.
Our generous benefits include:
* Eligibility to participate in our Teacher Housing program
* Medical Health Insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary
* Dental & Vision insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary
* Free snacks and beverages
* Free CPR/First Aid training as well as other trainings throughout the year
* 2 Paid Mental Health Days a year
* All Federal Holidays Paid, to include Juneteenth and MLK day
* Special Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel)
* 403 B (comparable to 401K) retirement plan
Paid Time Off (PTO):
* 5 weeks of PTO starting at year one
* 7 weeks after 2 years
* 8 weeks after 5 years
*This total PTO includes several pre-scheduled breaks throughout the year:
* 1 week Spring Break (March)
* 2 weeks Winter Break (December/January)
* 1 week Summer Break (July)
*Flexible PTO for personal use:
* 1 week in your first year (starts after first 30 days)
* 2 weeks after your second year
* 3 weeks after your third year
Key Responsibilities
Daily Classroom Operations
● Maintain at all times high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the school's philosophy and curriculum approach.
● Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects children's interests and supports inquiry-based learning.
● Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns.
● Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage.
● Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community.
● Support and lead with Co- Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom.
● Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements.
Curriculum and Documentation
● Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.
● Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible.
● Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend children's thinking and inquiry.
● Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.
● Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms.
● Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice.
Family and Child Engagement
● Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families.
● Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of children's growth and development.
● Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives.
● Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices.
● Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise.
Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities
● Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team.
● Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
● Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, training, and school events.
● Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication.
● Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards.
● Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program.
Garden to Table Integration
● Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate.
● Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects.
● Support children's participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance.
Qualifications
● Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
● Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting.
● Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role.
● Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning.
● Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.
● Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.
Core Competencies and Expectations
● Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture.
● Builds meaningful relationships with children and families.
● Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
● Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively.
● Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts.
● Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.

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Compensation details: 21-25 Hourly Wage

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