Experienced and Passionate Early Years Teacher Required for a Rewarding Role in Tarpon Springs, Florida, with a Focus on Child Development and Education

Introduction to Lutheran Services Florida

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is a renowned organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of children, families, and communities. With a vision of a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant, LSF offers a wide range of programs and services across the state of Florida. As a mission-driven organization, LSF is committed to transforming the lives of those in need and providing its staff with opportunities for growth and development.

Job Overview

We are currently seeking an experienced and passionate Early Years Teacher to join our team in Tarpon Springs, Florida. As a lead worker in the classroom, the successful candidate will be responsible for planning and implementing educational activities for pre-school aged children or infants/toddlers in our Head Start/Early Heart Start Program. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated and skilled educator to make a real difference in the lives of young children and their families.

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
• Plan 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
• Document children's progress or lack of and complete all required manual and computerized forms and reports
• Initiate referrals on children to the Center Director by submission of a variety of formal documents
• Plan classroom activities for parent and community volunteers
• 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, including ringworm, head lice, and other health conditions, and report to the appropriate Health Coordinator

Essential Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related degree
• Two years of experience teaching Head Start, Early Head Start, pre-school, or kindergarten age children
• Bilingual preferred: English/Spanish or English and other languages present in the local area
• Working knowledge of brain development and its impact on early learning
• Working knowledge of child development 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

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with children with special needs
• Knowledge of behavior modification theories and practices relating to early childhood development
• Knowledge of current educational techniques and practices relating to early childhood development
• Skill in the application of supervisory techniques
• Skill in verbal communication with infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children
• Skill in resolving conflicts between pre-school age children

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At LSF, we are committed to the growth and development of our staff. As an Early Years Teacher, you will have access to a range of training and development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and online courses. You will also have the opportunity to work with a talented and dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Work Environment and Company Culture

LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion in all business practices. Our organization is built on a foundation of respect, empathy, and compassion, and we are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for all staff. As an Early Years Teacher, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive team that is dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of children and families.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

LSF offers a competitive salary and a range of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, Teladoc, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), employer-paid life insurance, and a generous PTO policy. We also offer a 403(b) Retirement plan with a 3% discretionary employer match or 3% student loan repayment reimbursement. As an added incentive, we are offering a $3000 sign-on bonus for this role.

Conclusion

If you are a passionate and dedicated Early Years Teacher who is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. With a competitive salary, a range of benefits, and opportunities for growth and development, this is a role that is not to be missed. Join our team and be part of a dynamic and supportive organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of those in need.

Don't hesitate to apply today and take the first step towards a rewarding and challenging career as an Early Years Teacher with Lutheran Services Florida. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how you can make a difference in the lives of children and families in Tarpon Springs, Florida.