Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary: $18-22/Hour
Position Summary
The 2 & 3's Teacher is responsible for creating a nurturing, responsive, and engaging learning environment that supports toddlers social-emotional development, emerging independence, and early learning. This role intentionally implementsPyramid Model practices and aligns with indicators measured by TPITOS/TPOT, including relationship-based care, supportive environments, intentional teaching, and individualized responses to behavior.
The teacher works collaboratively with families and colleagues to promote positive outcomes for all children and to ensure a high-quality, developmentally appropriate classroom.
Essential Responsibilities
Nurturing and Responsive Relationships (Pyramid Model: Tier 1)
- Build warm, trusting, and responsive relationships with each child through consistent care, positive interactions, and emotional availability
- Use developmentally appropriate, respectful communication with children throughout the day
- Support childrens emotional expression and emerging self-regulation skills
- Partner with families to support continuity of care between home and school
Supportive Learning Environment (Pyramid Model: Tier 1)
- Design and maintain a safe, engaging, and well-organized learning environment aligned with toddlers developmental needs
- Establish predictable routines and schedules that support security and independence
- Use visual supports, clear expectations, and transitions to promote positive behavior
- Ensure materials are accessible, inclusive, culturally responsive, and promote exploration
Social-Emotional Teaching Practices (Pyramid Model: Tier 2)
- Model and teach age-appropriate social skills (e.g., turn-taking, gentle touches, problem-solving)
- Use emotionally supportive strategies such as labeling feelings, coaching, and modeling calm behavior
- Embed social-emotional learning intentionally throughout daily routines and play
- Use evidence-based strategies consistent with TPITOS indicators to support peer interactions
Individualized Behavior Support (Pyramid Model: Tier 3, as needed)
- Observe and document childrens behavior to identify patterns, triggers, and strengths
- Respond to challenging behavior using developmentally appropriate, relationship-based, and preventative strategies
- Collaborate with supervisors, families, and support teams to implement individualized plans when necessary
- Maintain a strengths-based, non-punitive approach to behavior guidance
Curriculum, Observation, and Planning
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences
- Conduct regular observations and documentation to inform instruction and individualized support
- Use data and reflection to improve teaching practices in alignment with TPITOS indicators
- Maintain accurate and timely classroom documentation
Health, Safety, and Professionalism
- Follow all licensing regulations, health and safety policies, and supervision requirements
- Maintain active supervision at all times
- Participate in ongoing professional development related to the Pyramid Model, social-emotional development, best practices for toddlers, health and safety, etc.
- Work collaboratively and respectfully with teaching teams and leadership
Required Qualifications
- CDA, Associates, or bachelors degree in early childhood education or related field (or willingness to work toward credential)
- Experience working with toddlers (ages 23)
- Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practice
- Commitment to implementing Pyramid Model practices
- Ability to build strong relationships with young children and families
Preferred Qualifications
- Training or experience with the Pyramid Model and/or TPITOS
- Training in conscious discipline, positive behavior support, or infant-toddler mental health
- Experience using observation-based assessment tools
Core Competencies
- Warm, responsive, and relationship-centered teaching
- Strong observation and reflection skills
- Collaborative and team-oriented mindset
- Patience, flexibility, and emotional regulation
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practice
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
- Ability to sit, stand, and engage in floor-based play for extended periods
- Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors
- Willing and able to participate and engage students in outdoor activities in all weather - we go outside EVERY DAY!