Preschool Teacher | Robinson Community Learning Center

Job Description

Job DescriptionCompany Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

Job Description

The Preschool Teacher is responsible for leading the full-day toddler classroom at the Robinson Community Learning Center (RCLC), serving up to 10 children aged 18 to 36 months during the academic year, with an additional summer session. The classroom is located at Sunnyside Presbyterian Church.

This role includes implementing the HighScope curriculum, planning daily developmentally appropriate activities that support growth in physical, language, cognitive, and social-emotional domains, and assessing both child development and the quality of the learning environment. The Preschool Teacher ensures compliance with all relevant state regulations, including Indiana State Licensure, Child Care Voucher guidelines, and the Paths to QUALITY rating system.

The teacher maintains regular communication with families, organizes parent-child learning opportunities, and collaborates with college student volunteers and AmeriCorps members in the classroom.

Key Responsibilities

Child & Program Assessment

Regularly assess children’s development, the classroom environment, and overall program quality using standardized tools. Conduct annual evaluations using the Program Quality Assessment (goal: score of 4.0) and the Paths to QUALITY checklist (goal: maintain Level 3). Facilitate annual feedback from both families and staff.

Compliance & Documentation
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records to ensure compliance with state agencies such as Paths to QUALITY, Indiana Child Care Licensing, and the Child and Adult Food Care Program (via South Bend Schools). Follow all operational and regulatory guidelines consistently.

Classroom Curriculum & Instruction
Design and lead a toddler program that runs Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., during the school year and summer. Support holistic child development in a nurturing, literacy-rich environment. Responsibilities include:

• Creating and posting weekly lesson plans.
• Ensuring adherence to health, safety, and sanitation protocols.
• Supporting both individual and group learning through the HighScope curriculum.

Team Collaboration & Volunteer Coordination
Work closely with RCLC staff, AmeriCorps members, and college/community volunteers to support a positive learning environment. Attend weekly staff meetings and contribute to center-wide events and initiatives.

Family Engagement & Support
Recruit and enroll families, assist with childcare voucher applications, and help parents remain in compliance. Maintain consistent communication with families through:

• Home visits and conferences.
• Monthly newsletters.
• Weekly take-home literacy activities.
• Regular field trips and on-site parent-child events.

Qualifications

Education & Degree Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or up to 3 years of college or technical school
• Required: Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate or a minimum of 15 college credit hours in early childhood education or a related field
• Preferred: College degree in Child Development or a related field

Experience

• 1 to 2 years of experience working with young children, preferably in an early childhood education setting

Skills & Competencies

• Solid understanding of early childhood education principles, including:
  • Child development stages (ages 0–6)
  • Developmentally appropriate learning and curriculum
  • Classroom environment best practices
  • Health and safety standards
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to relate well to children and families from diverse backgrounds
  • Patience, flexibility, and a positive, adventurous spirit
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Proficiency with Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, etc.) and social media platforms
  • Preferred: Bilingual (English/Spanish or other languages)

Certifications

• Current First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)

Additional Information

Application Deadline to Apply: August 12, 2025

Hiring Pay Range: Commensurate with experience

At Notre Dame, we know our impact depends on exceptional people, people like you. We are committed to fostering a vibrant, welcoming community. In keeping with our mission, we encourage applications from all who will help build and strengthen our beloved community. We strive to empower every employee to flourish, knowing your success propels Notre Dame to new heights of impact.