Job Title: Preschool Teacher
Reports Preschool Director
Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt, 16.5- 28 hours/per week
Location: Gilbert, Arizona
Salary: Starting at $18, based on experience
Benefits: Refer to First UMC Gilbert Personnel Handbook

A preschool teacher a safe, Christ-centered, and nurturing learning environment for young children. The role integrates academic and social-emotional development. The preschool teacher creates a safe and welcoming environment that provides a stimulating educational program for preschool aged children. The ideal candidate is patient, energetic, and passionate about early childhood education. This is a part-time, on site role scheduled for 16.5 – 28 hours per week. The hours are determined by the specific classroom needs.

Organizational Relationships

  • Reports to Preschool Director
  • Works collaboratively with teachers, staff, and volunteers
  • Does not have supervisory responsibility.
  • Teacher does provide feedback into the Preschool Teacher Aide’s performance.

 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Classroom Management & Curriculum Responsibilities

  • Plan and implement lesson plant that align with educational standards and cater to the developmental needs of preschoolers.
  • Organize and lead activities that promote intellectual, social, physical, and spiritual growth, such as play-based learning, crafts, music, and storytelling.
  • Establish and enforce rules for behavior and classroom procedures to maintain a loving, orderly environment.
  • Creating interdisciplinary lessons that incorporate various subjects like math, literacy, science, and art in a cohesive manner.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom, ensuring all materials and equipment are used properly and maintained.
  • Work collaboratively with other preschool teachers to modify and update curriculum to meet the current needs of the students and that will introduce new delivery methods.

Child Development & Supervision

  • Supervise children at all times during classroom activities, outdoor playtime, and rest periods to ensure their safety and well-being.
  • Observe and evaluate children’s performance, behavior, and social development, making adaptations to teaching methods as needed.
  • Identify and report any signs of emotional, developmental, or health-related problems to the preschool director or parents.
  • Assist children with personal hygiene needs such as hand washing.

Communication & Parent Partnership

  • Maintain open and cooperative communication with parents and families regarding their child’s progress and any concerns.
  • Prepare and lead parent-teacher conferences to discuss children’s development and set shared goals.
  • Partner with parents to support the child’s faith formation and encourage family involvement in the program.
  • Provide regular updates to parents through newsletters, emails, or informal conversations.

Professional & Community Engagement

  • Attend all required staff meetings, devotions, and professional development opportunities.
  • Participate in school-related events as required.
  • Collaborate with other preschool teachers and staff members to review and revise curriculum and program objectives.
  • Report any suspected child abuse or neglect according to state law and ministry policy.

Skills Qualifications

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field.
  • Experience working with preschool-aged children.
  • A positive attitude, flexibility, and a passion for working with children.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks.
  • Proficient in basic technology: Microsoft Office, social media platforms, Constant Contact, and child care management system. If not proficient, must display the ability to learn and apply new learnings.
  • Spiritually mature Christian in agreement with the church’s statement of faith and committed to its vision, mission, and values.
  • Required to maintain a complete employee file that includes CPR/First Aid Certification, Safe Gatherings, required ADHS documents, Fingerprint Clearance Card, and training documentation.

Work Schedule and Environment

  • Work takes place in preschool classroom which is part of First UMC Gilbert church campus during traditional work hours. The hours will be based on the individual classroom days, standard hours are 8:00am-1:30pm or 8am-3pm. Number of days may vary.
  • Occasional flexibility may be required for school events or special projects with advance notice.

First United Methodist Church of Gilbert is an inclusive and welcoming congregation. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences.

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