Intro
Here at Questar III BOCES, we believe in changing lives, realizing dreams and doing together what can’t be done alone. Our vision is that of creating a student-centered culture and putting students first. Our core values include a commitment to excellence by honing our craftsmanship to deliver high-quality work, a commitment to leadership & service by moving the organization, departments and school districts forward by exceeding client expectations, and a commitment to innovation by creating programs and services to address client needs AND by continuously improving our programs and operations. We believe that organizational excellence is best achieved when leadership is reflective of our diverse society.
About the Job
Questar III BOCES announces a vacancy for a full-time probationary Universal Pre-K Teacher position located in Catskill, NY. The Universal Pre-K program provides four-year-old children with an opportunity to access high-quality pre-kindergarten programs that prepare them for future school success. The program focuses on child-centered activities, development of strong foundational skills in early literacy and numeracy, social interactions and Kindergarten readiness skills. Proper NYS B-2 or N-6 Teacher certification required. Preferred candidates will have experience working with pre-k populations.
Responsibilities:
? Curriculum and Instruction:
? Plan, develop, and implement a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate UPK curriculum that meets New York State learning standards and district guidelines, including early literacy and emergent reading instruction based on evidence-based practices (e.g., background knowledge, phonological awareness, expressive/receptive language, vocabulary development, phonemic awareness).
? Create engaging and learner-centered activities that promote children's total growth and development, utilizing a balance of teacher-initiated and child-initiated learning opportunities.
? Integrate various educational techniques (e.g., storytelling, educational play, multimedia) to facilitate learning across all domains.
? Design and arrange a clean, organized, and inviting classroom environment with learning centers and hands-on activities that align with best practices.
? Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning styles and needs of individual children, including those with varying abilities and language backgrounds.
? Child Observation and Assessment:
? Establish and implement a process for ongoing assessment of children's developmental baseline and progress in language, cognitive, and social skills.
? Maintain accurate individual records for each child and use assessment data to inform instruction, set individual goals, and monitor program effectiveness.
? Observe children regularly to identify changes in behavior, developmental progress, and areas requiring additional support.
? Classroom Management and Safety:
? Ensure the safety and supervision of all children within the classroom, during recreational activities, meal times, and field trips.
? Implement age-appropriate and positive guidance strategies to teach, encourage, and redirect behavior, fostering a nurturing and secure environment.
? Maintain a clean, organized, and healthy classroom environment consistent with health and safety standards.
? Attend to children's personal needs, including toileting, feeding, washing, and comforting, as appropriate.
? Family Engagement and Communication:
? Build strong, positive, and professional relationships with families, creating a welcoming and respectful environment that encourages parent participation.
? Communicate effectively and regularly with parents/guardians regarding their child's daily activities, progress, and any concerns, including classroom orientation and biannual progress reports.
? Partner with families to create plans that support the child's optimal care and education.
? Collaboration and Professional Development:
? Work collaboratively with teacher assistants, paraprofessionals, service providers, and other colleagues to ensure a cohesive and supportive learning environment.
? Supervise and guide assistant teachers and volunteers, providing input for performance appraisals and professional growth.
? Actively participate in staff meetings, professional development days, and study groups as required by the district and New York State.
? Commit to ongoing professional learning, completing a minimum of 15 hours of early childhood training annually.
? Administrative and Compliance:
? Maintain accurate classroom records and necessary written documentation for regulatory compliance (e.g., OCFS, district requirements).
? Stay informed about New York State child care regulations and Universal Pre-Kindergarten program requirements.
? Possess knowledge of children's allergies and advise all staff accordingly.
Qualifications:
? New York State Teaching Certification:
? New York State Teaching Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth - Grade 2) or Nursery Teacher Certification, OR
? New York State Teaching Certification for Students with Disabilities valid for service in early childhood grades.
? Education:
? Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field required. A Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education is often preferred.
? Experience:
? Prior experience working with preschool-age children in a school-based or early childhood setting is highly preferred.
? Skills and Abilities:
? Excellent understanding of child development principles and best practices in early childhood education.
? Strong communication (oral and written), interpersonal, and instructional skills.
? Ability to act as a mediator and guide children's behavior effectively and positively.
? Cool-tempered, friendly, reliable, and able to build rapport with children, families, and colleagues.
? Ability to observe, see, hear, and respond to children's needs, emergencies, and conflicts.
? Physical ability to lift approximately 30 pounds, crouch to a child's height, sit on the floor for extended periods, and move quickly to ensure child safety.
? Proficiency in maintaining a positive work climate and meeting deadlines.
? Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
? Knowledge of safety and sanitation guidelines for classrooms.
? Other Requirements:
? Successful completion of a fingerprint-supported criminal history background check through the NY State Education Department (and DOI if applicable to NYC early education centers).
? Completion of required workshops (e.g., Dignity For All Students Act, School Violence Intervention and Prevention).
Questar III offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits (including enrollment in the NYS Teacher’s Retirement system). For more information on Questar III BOCES, please visit www.questar.org.