Lead Teacher, Pre-K Classroom

The George Mason University Child Development Center (CDC) invites applications for an experienced, dedicated and progressively minded individual to serve as Lead Teacher in a Pre-K Classroom. George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason's academic and culturally inclusive environment.

About the Position: The Lead Teacher for the Pre-K Classroom will develop an emergent play-based curriculum in partnership with an experienced Assistant Teacher to support the overall development and social-emotional skills based on the individual needs and interests of each child. This is a full-time, year-round position with excellent benefits.

Responsibilities: * Collaborates with one assistant teacher, part time staff and volunteers; * Plans and implements developmentally appropriate child-centered curriculum consistent with the CDC's mission and philosophy in emergent open-ended play emphasizing emotional support and respect for each child; * Maintains all standards of training and education as required by the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS), Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC); * Develops and maintains strong connections with families; * Collaborates with and mentors assistant teachers and volunteers from other departments on the university campus; * Follows basic principles of early childhood development as defined in the NAEYC code of ethical conduct.

Required Qualifications: * AA in early childhood education, child development, elementary education, early childhood special education or equivalent of 60 college credits (30 in related concentration); * 1 year demonstrated classroom experience with children birth to age five; * Demonstrated experience with dual and multilingual children; * Effective communication, both written and verbal, and supervisory skills a necessity; * The successful candidate must pass a tuberculosis (TB) screening and criminal record clearance prior to employment; * CPR, First Aid and Medical Administration certifications are required, but may be completed after employment.

Preferred Qualifications: * Advanced degree; * 3 years demonstrated classroom experience with children birth to age five; * Experience with preschoolers, ages 3-5; * Experience working with children and families from diverse backgrounds.

For full consideration, applicants must apply for position number FA749z at http://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references with contact information.

"Great Careers Begin at Mason!

George Mason University is an innovative, entrepreneurial institution with national distinction in both academics and research. Mason holds a top U.S. News and World Report "Up and Coming" spot for national universities and is recognized for its global appeal and excellence in higher education.

Mason is currently the largest and most diverse university in Virginia with students and faculty from all 50 states and over 135 countries studying in over 200 degree programs at campuses in Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William, as well as at learning locations across the commonwealth. Rooted in Mason's diversity is a campus culture that is both rewarding and exciting, work that is meaningful, and opportunities to both collaborate and create.

If you are interested in joining the Mason family take a look at our current opportunities and catch some Mason spirit at jobs.gmu.edu/!

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