Assistant Teacher – Toddler

Toddler Program Assistant Teacher

Position Summary
The Toddler Program Assistant Teacher works closely with the Lead Teacher to support a classroom flow that honors the toddler’s need for movement and autonomy. In this role, you’ll be
the co-pilot for our explorers aged 18 months to 3 years, helping them navigate their growing independence and their connection to the natural world.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

● Curriculum & Instruction: Utilize our blended curriculum model to plan and execute daily lesson plans that promote the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of children (ages 1-3).

● Classroom Management: Maintain a high-quality learning environment that meets Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) licensing standards and safety regulations.
● Observation & Assessment: Conduct regular developmental assessments (e.g., Teaching Strategies GOLD) and maintain anecdotal records to track child progress.
● Leadership: Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and volunteers, providing guidance on best practices and classroom flow.
● Family Engagement: Facilitate parent-teacher conferences and maintain daily communication with families regarding their child’s milestones and needs.
● Safety & Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to health and safety protocols, including sanitization, emergency preparedness, and mandated reporting.
● Bilingual Environment: Maintain a language-rich environment where Spanish and English are used interchangeably to support cognitive flexibility and cultural appreciation.

Technical Skills, Knowledge & Abilities
● Developmental Knowledge: Deep understanding of child growth and development stages and “Developmentally Appropriate Practice” (DAP).
● Pedagogical Fluency: Ability to explain the “why” behind our blended model to parents and stakeholders.
● Colorado Shines PDIS: Ability to navigate and maintain professional records within the Colorado Shines Professional Development Information System.
● Technology Proficiency: Experience with classroom management software, digital portfolios, and basic office tools (e.g., Email, Google Applications, Brightwheel).
● Behavioral Guidance: Skilled in positive redirection and conflict resolution strategies tailored to young children.
● Risk Management: Knowledge of safety protocols for off-site excursions and outdoor play.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required (required); Courses in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or a related field (strongly preferred).
• Credentialing: Must meet Colorado Lead Teacher Qualifications (ECT qualified). This typically includes: Colorado Early Childhood Professional Credential 3.0 (Level 1 or higher).
•  Experience:1+ years in a licensed ECE classroom preferred (Montessori, Reggio, or STEAM experience strongly preferred).
  Clearance: Must pass a comprehensive background check, including Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprinting.

Compensation & Benefits
● Competitive Salary: $37,000 – $41,000 annual salary
● Health & Wellness: Monthly Health Stipend to assist with medical, dental, or vision premiums.
● Eligible for Retirement Plan (upon completion of required service period): Simple IRA program with employer matching contributions.
● Paid Time Off: Accrued vacation time, sick leave, and paid holidays.
● Tax Incentives: Assistance in applying for the Colorado Early Childhood Educator Income Tax Credit (up to $1,700+ annually for qualified levels).
● Childcare Discount: Substantial discount for staff children.

Schedule
● Shift: Monday – Friday, [e.g., 7:40 AM – 3:00 PM, 8:20 AM – 3:40 PM].
● Planning Time: Weekly dedicated out-of-classroom time for lesson planning and administrative tasks.

Ready to lead the next generation of Explorers? Submit your resume and a brief cover letter sharing your personal “teaching philosophy” to durangoexplorers@gmail.com.
Explorers is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and families