Colorado Academy (CA) is looking for a passionate and experienced Early Childhood Educator to join us as an Infant Nursery Supervisor, acting as a Master Teacher. This role demands a profound grasp of early childhood development, specifically for infants and young toddlers (ages zero to two). The ideal candidate will oversee daily operations in the infant nursery, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for both infants and staff. Responsible for leadership and guidance in the infant classroom, the Master Teacher ensures the implementation of developmentally appropriate practices and supports the professional growth of staff.

Responsibilities:

• Curriculum Implementation and Oversight:
  • Organize, scaffold, and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities specifically tailored to infants and young toddlers.
  • Ensure that activities promote the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of each infant.
• Supervision and Leadership:
  • Serve as a mentor and resource for a team of infant caregivers, providing guidance, support, and mentorship in planning, classroom management, and child assessment.
  • Stay current on research and best practices in early childhood education, participating in professional development opportunities as appropriate.
  • Conduct regular observations and provide constructive feedback to support the professional growth of staff members.
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes teamwork centered on innovative practice.
• Child Assessment and Individualized Planning:
  • Conduct ongoing assessments of each infant's developmental progress, providing individualized support and interventions as needed.
  • Collaborate with families to establish goals and strategies for their child's development, ensuring open communication and partnership.
  • Develop and maintain a classroom environment geared toward elevating and nurturing the bond between children and their families. 
• Health and Safety Compliance:
  • Maintain a safe and hygienic environment in accordance with all licensing, health department, and program-specific regulations that are followed at all times with special care an attention to safe sleep practices and health and safety standards.
  • Ensure proper supervision of infants at all times, including during feeding, diapering, and nap time.
  • Conduct regular health checks, safety drills, and training for infant staff to prepare for emergencies.
• Communication and Engagement:
  • Establish and maintain positive relationships with parents, providing regular updates on their child's development and well-being and incorporating each family's preferences into care practices. 
  • Foster positive relationships with children, families, and staff members to create a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation of children's progress, attendance, and developmental milestones.
  • Participate in parent conferences, team meetings, and other collaborative activities to support the overall mission of the program.
  • Collaborate with administrators and fellow educators to develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure the safety, well-being, and engaged learning of all children.

• A formal degree in early childhood education or a related field (bachelor's degree preferred) is required.
• State certification through Colorado Shines as an Early Childhood Teacher (ECT).  Colorado Shines level four through six.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience working in early childhood education (preferably with infant populations), with demonstrated leadership abilities.
• Demonstrated understanding of child development theories and innovative best practices in early childhood education.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Strong ability to provide oversight and compliance with school policies and procedures, including those related to licensing, health, safety, and emergency preparedness.
• Demonstrated expertise in the social and emotional development of children by modeling positive behavior, providing encouragement, and resolving conflicts as needed.
• Demonstrated skill set in overseeing classroom management, including maintaining order, facilitating transitions, and addressing behavioral issues positively and constructively.
• Establish and maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative team and effectively lead a classroom team and mentor lead/assistant teachers
• Ability to collaborate with program administration to support the overall goals of the program and support fellow Master Teachers through monthly collaboration and alignment planning. 
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.
• Current Colorado Shines credential and all related PDIS training courses

Working Conditions:

• This position involves frequent interaction with infants and exposure to various childcare environments, both indoors and out.
• This position requires the ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs.
• Ability to sit on the floor and move from floor to standing safely and with ease.
• Ability to engage in active play (running, walking, lifting, crawling) with infants and young toddlers daily. 
• Flexibility in working hours may be required to accommodate the needs of the program and families.

This position will remain posted until filled. Applicants, please include a cover letter with your application submission. 

Apply online: Colorado Academy Job Opportunities

The pay range for the position is $21.00 - $25.00 per hour. Colorado Academy reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range. Any discrepancies that may exist do not relate to sex. The Academy offers an excellent compensation package, wide-ranging opportunities for professional development, and an environment notable for its dedicated teaching professionals and supportive administrators. Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance benefit programs are available, as is a 403(b) retirement plan. Eligibility for all benefit programs is defined by the applicable plan document. 

Applicants are invited to visit the Colorado Academy website (www.coloradoacademy.org) to learn more about the program and the school.

Colorado Academy does not discriminate or allow unlawful harassment in any of its programs, procedures or practices on the basis of age, color, disability, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, political affiliation, race, religion or creed, gender, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military service, marital status or other protected classifications defined by applicable law. The policy applies in all aspects of employment with the Academy.