POSITION SUMMARY:

Develops and leads the implementation of high quality developmentally appropriate programs for children to facilitate their physical, social, emotional and cognitive growth. Leads the implementation of programs and activities that facilitate the inclusion and integration of children with special needs. Supports a team environment in the classroom and the Centre. This position is currently based at St. Jude Child Care Centre - 3251 Weston Road, Toronto, ON M9M 2T9.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Early Childhood Education degree/diploma or equivalent and experience working with families and children, including children with special needs
• Experience and demonstrated ability to deliver inclusive programming to children with special needs
• Member in good standing with the College of Early Childhood Educators
• Strong working knowledge of the ELECT, High Scope curriculum and program planning based on an inclusion model respectful of all children’s abilities
• Good written and verbal communication skills and excellent listening skills
• Computer literacy required together with proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite, Internet and email
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective work partnerships with parents/families, colleagues and service providers of diverse backgrounds, abilities and identities
• Acceptable Vulnerable Police Record Check.
• Current Standard First Aid certification and appropriate medical and immunization record.
  SALARY: Trained Teacher Salary Scale (Starting at $28.34/hour- $51,574 - $56,099 per annum (prorated)) with Competitive Benefits Package (health & dental) and paid time off entitlements (starting at 20 vacation days & 3 float days (prorated)).

• Plan and organize a safe environment and supervise children to protect their safety and personal well-being at all times while in care. Make sure equipment and physical environment is maintained free of safety or health hazards.
• Plan, execute and evaluate daily programming using the curriculum and approach approved by the agency to promote children’s optimal emotional, cognitive and physical development. Encourage active learning to build self- esteem in an inclusive and respectful environment. Facilitate planned and spontaneous experiences.
• Work in compliance with the Child Care Early Years Act, the Toronto Operating Criteria (Assessment for Quality Improvement), Toronto Public Health guidelines, the Occupational Health & Safety Act and all other applicable regulations and Laws.
• Observe children’s strengths, areas of challenge, emerging skills and interests. Plan, implement, evaluate and revise programming to meet individual and group needs. Collaborate with other staff as applicable (e.g. Assistant Teacher, Resource Teacher)
• Demonstrate positive adult/child interaction, use effective and appropriate communication with children, promote children’s independence and problem- solving skills, build children’s confidence, assist children with understanding and dealing with the consequences of their behaviour and model mutual respect and kindness
• Communicate sensitively and appropriately with parents/families. Provide meaningful feedback and information regarding their child’s learning and development, emerging skills and interests and the purpose of activities
• Liaise with other agencies and individuals to support children’s progress and success (e.g. Schools, Special Needs Consultants)
• Support the team to effectively manage children’s medication schedule and allergies
• Drop off and or pick up children from buses outside Centre (if applicable/if required)
• Serve and clean up lunches, prepare snacks, maintain a clean, organized and sanitary kitchen, and perform housekeeping duties as assigned/as needed.
• Supervise student teachers and assist in completing college evaluation forms and in discussion with student and placement teachers.