Job Description

ORLEANS/NIAGARA BOCES

Early Childhood Education Instructor

Job Description:

Orleans Niagara BOCES is seeking a dedicated, student-centered Early Childhood Education Instructor to teach high school students enrolled in the Early Chilhood Education program while overseeing the daily operation of an on-site preschool. The successful candidate will provide high-quality instruction that prepares students for careers and further education in early childhood education while ensuring a safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children.

This position combines classroom instruction, hands-on learning, curriculum development, and preschool program management. The instructor will provide high school students with authentic, real-world experiences that develop the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies necessary to work successfully with young children.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Learning

• Develop and deliver engaging, standards-aligned instruction in early childhood education, child development, and related career pathways.
• Teach high school students the principles of child growth and development, developmentally appropriate practices, health and safety, nutrition, classroom management, lesson planning, and positive guidance strategies.
• Provide opportunities for students to apply classroom learning through supervised, hands-on experiences in the preschool setting.
• Develop curriculum, instructional materials, assessments, and projects that support student achievement and career readiness.
• Teach students to plan and implement age-appropriate activities that promote children's cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
• Assess student progress, maintain accurate records and grades, and provide timely feedback to support continuous improvement.
• Prepare students for industry-recognized credentials, postsecondary education, and employment opportunities, as applicable.
• Promote professionalism, collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and ethical practices in preparation for the workforce.

Preschool Program Administration and Supervision

• Oversee the daily operation of the preschool program, maintaining a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment.
• Develop and implement preschool schedules, routines, lesson plans, and activities that support the developmental needs of young children.
• Ensure compliance with applicable licensing requirements, health and safety regulations, program policies, and supervision standards.
• Supervise and guide high school students as they work with preschool children, ensuring appropriate interactions and professional conduct.
• Monitor children's development and provide appropriate learning experiences that support individual needs and abilities.
• Maintain accurate preschool records, attendance, incident reports, and other required documentation.
• Communicate professionally with preschool families regarding program activities, expectations, and children's experiences, as appropriate.
• Maintain classroom materials, equipment, learning centers, and supplies to support an effective learning environment.

Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities

• Establish positive relationships with high school students, preschool children and families, colleagues, administrators, and community partners.
• Collaborate with school personnel and relevant agencies to support program quality, student success, and continuous improvement.
• Provide students with opportunities to connect their learning to real-world workplace expectations and career opportunities.
• Participate in professional development, program planning, student recruitment, and other activities that support the success of the CTE program.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the administration.

Qualifications

• Valid New York State teaching certification appropriate for the Early Childhood Education program, as required.
• Relevant education and experience in early childhood education, child development, or a related field.
• Experience working with young children and an understanding of developmentally appropriate instructional practices.
• Knowledge of preschool program operations, child safety, curriculum planning, classroom management, and applicable regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to provide effective instruction to high school students and supervise students in a hands-on learning environment.
• Strong communication, organization, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to establish positive relationships with students, children, families, colleagues, and community partners.

Desired Skills and Attributes

The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic, organized, and collaborative educator who is passionate about early childhood development and career and technical education. The candidate will demonstrate strong instructional and leadership skills, maintain high expectations while providing appropriate support, and create a positive learning environment in which both high school students and preschool children can thrive.

The successful candidate will understand the importance of connecting classroom instruction to authentic workplace experiences and preparing students with the technical knowledge, professional skills, and confidence needed for success in postsecondary education and the workforce.

**Equal Opportunity Employer**

Requirements: New York State Teacher Certification

Anticipated Salary: $54,200-$92,000 commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.