Preschool Teacher

Sunnybeam School, a historic preschool on Mercer Island that nurtures children individually while building community and preparing them for their next steps, is looking for a kind and caring teacher to join our teaching team beginning immediately. The ideal candidate will have teaching experience or a strong desire to learn from seasoned teachers and a true love for 3-5 year olds. Led by an experienced Lead Teacher, the Sunnybeam teaching team works cohesively to keep the classroom on pace with the daily schedule while maintaining a calm, positive and fun atmosphere. Our team teaching environment allows for all teachers to share leading and planning opportunities and responsibilities. This position requires a positive attitude, creativity, collaboration, and a deep understanding of how to best engage and teach preschool children. At Sunnybeam, you will be a valued member of a team of teaching professionals who make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in our community every day. Essential Functions:Ensure that the physical, social and emotional needs of the children are met daily.Engage with all children throughout the day in conversation, looking for opportunities to expand learning and take advantage of teachable moments.Interact with each child respectfully at all times. Promote positive social skills and redirect inappropriate behaviors using positive discipline techniques.Demonstrate acute awareness of the entire group whether working with a small group or individuals.In conjunction with the Lead Teacher, prepare and implement classroom lesson plans, instructional aids and/or materials for classroom activities.Create activities and opportunities that encourage curiosity, exploration and problem solving appropriate to the developmental levels and learning styles of children.Prepare and maintain a warm and safe environment that is orderly, clean and appealing to encourage the children to grow and explore.Ensure that all classroom and outdoor equipment are in good working condition and are used and maintained properly.Create positive relationships with parents/guardians, share anecdotes about childrens days. Be able to listen to parent concerns in a supportive, respectful and confidential manner, and direct them to the Lead Teacher to address.Attend and participate in staff meetings, Sunnybeam events and parent meetings, as requested.Other RequirementsMaintain mental and physical alertness and an appropriate level of energy to perform essential job requirements. Respond immediately and appropriately to unexpected situations or emergencies.Excellent organizational and multitasking skills Effective and positive communicationReliable and punctualA willingness to learn by observing, listening and constructive feedback Strong situational awareness with multiple children in a classroom or playgroundA positive, warm, happy, fun energy and personality Creativity, artistic and singing ability/interest a plusAbility to stand for multiple hours and bend to be on a child's level.Ability/interest in helping with classroom set-up including occasionally moving furniture, carrying items to and from storage and assisting with bulletin boards, hanging art and other decorative tasks.A keen appreciation for our historic school, 100-year old schoolhouse and our traditionsEducation / KnowledgePrevious experience working with children. Previous experience in a preschool setting is preferred.CPR and First Aid Certification or willingness to obtain certification Position Schedule & DetailsOur school is open Monday-Friday 9:00am-1:00pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays 1:30-3:30pm and follows the Mercer Island School District calendar. Position is to work all mornings and afternoons with additional planning and prep time, 35-38 hours/week. For more information on Sunnybeam School please visit www.sunnybeamschool.org.