OUR MISSION:

The mission of Polk County Public Schools is to provide a high quality education for all students.
To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The duties are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by the employee assigned to the position. This job description is not meant to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position. Other duties may be assigned which are not listed. Additionally, when duties and responsibilities of this job change, this job description will be reviewed and updated, subject to changes and business necessity.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of purpose and appropriate practice for quality early childhood programs. Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education. Knowledge of appropriate strategies for observation and assessment of young children. Knowledge of Department of Children and Families, Rules and Regulations. Demonstrate ability to relate well with people of varied socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. Excellent communications skills. Well organized. Ability to model appropriate behaviors within a variety of settings. Able to provide own transportation with reimbursement according to School Board policies. Bilingual/biliterate a plus.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR CERTIFICATION/LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

The minimum qualification is a combination of education and experience, with a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, an AA or AS degree in Early Childhood, or a CDA equivalency (FCCPC) with a minimum of 18 college credit hours in Early Childhood. Must be Voluntary Prekindergarten credentialed by Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) certified to instruct. Actual work experience should be in nursery school teaching, child care, or other preschool program, kindergarten, or other relevant experience, preferably with preschool economically disadvantaged children and their families.

CUSTOM JOB PURPOSE:

This position exists to plan, implement, and assess student growth and compliance with federal performance standards, Department of Children and Families state standards, and developmentally appropriate classroom activities and direct classroom activities under the supervision of the Resource Teachers. The Child Development Associate Teacher (CDAT) will implement services to support the preschool child and the family. Complies with state and federal standards and Department of Children and Families.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THIS JOB

Plays a lead role in planning, teaching, and organizing classroom activities for infant/toddlers. Functions as a team when partnered with another CDAT or Pre-K para-educator. Is responsible for the total infant/toddler classroom operation. Is responsible for the preparation and implementation of all curriculum activities. Assists in the assessment of children’s educational, social, and emotional needs. Promotes feelings of security and trust in infants and toddlers. Talks, sings and reads to infants frequently. Responds quickly in a soothing and tender manner to infant cries, needs for food or calls of distress. Organizes and maintains daily schedule, and staff/student ratio to meet DCF requirements. Takes part in staff development activities. Complies with program rules including family contacts. Maintains a cooperative attitude of working together with other I/T teachers, the center Director, the Senior Coordinator Teen Parent Program/Childcare Services, parents and volunteers in planning and implementing activities for the program/classroom. Conducts developmental screenings and ongoing assessments of infants and toddlers to determine motor, language, social, cognitive perceptual and emotional skills. Completes timely, neat, accurate documentation of screenings, assessments, individualized health plans, attendance, daily health checklist, feedings, daily activity logs for parents, inventories, and other documentation as may be deemed necessary for proving quality childcare services. Supports monthly parent involvement opportunities to encourage nurturing skills and establish rapport between school and family. Serves as a liaison between school based personnel and Preschool parents during the transition to Headstart, VPK and/or School Readiness.