Associate teacher - CTC Permit Required

About Joyful Learning Educational Development Center

Joyful Learning Educational Development Center is a nonprofit early learning organization committed to providing high-quality childcare and early education services that help children build a strong foundation for lifelong success. We believe every child deserves access to safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environments where they can develop socially, emotionally, physically, and academically.

Located at McLaughlin Avenue, San Jose Joyful Learning serves children and families throughout Santa Clara County, with a strong focus on supporting low-income and working families. Through our infant, toddler, preschool, and school-age programs, we provide developmentally appropriate learning experiences that promote school readiness, family engagement, and healthy child development.

Our mission is to partner with families to create meaningful learning opportunities that inspire curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. We are committed to fostering inclusive environments where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

About the Role

The Preschool Teacher is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children while supporting their educational, social-emotional, and developmental growth. The teacher plans and implements developmentally appropriate curriculum, maintains active supervision of children, and works collaboratively with families and staff to ensure high-quality early childhood education services.

What You'll Be Doing

• Plan, prepare, and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities that support children's social-emotional, language, cognitive, and physical development.
• Create and maintain engaging indoor and outdoor learning environments that encourage exploration, creativity, and school readiness.
• Prepare classroom materials, learning centers, and supplies needed to support daily activities and learning goals.
• Provide nurturing care and active supervision to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children.
• Conduct ongoing observations and assist with child assessments, including DRDP documentation and individual learning goals.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment in accordance with licensing regulations and program policies.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding children's progress, development, and daily activities, including participation in parent conferences.
• Supervise and provide guidance to Associate Teachers, Teacher Aides, Substitute Teachers, and Volunteers as assigned.
• Assume classroom leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Site Supervisor, Lead Teacher, or Center Director.
• Complete lesson plans, attendance records, incident reports, assessments, and other required documentation in a timely manner.
• Support children with special needs through individualized accommodations and inclusive classroom practices, including assistance with feeding, toileting, diapering, and other personal care needs as appropriate.
• Promote positive behavior guidance techniques that foster social-emotional growth and healthy relationships.
• Attend required staff meetings, professional development trainings, and program events.
• Work collaboratively with coworkers, families, and community partners to support children's success.
• Promote the mission, philosophy, and values of Joyful Learning Educational Development Center.
• Assist in other classrooms or program areas as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum Associate Teacher Permit or higher credential
• 1 year prior experience in working with young children is preferred
• Bilingual in Spanish (required) and/or Mandarin, Vietnamese (preferred)
• Immunization records that comply with SenateBill 792 (immunity for measles, pertussis, and influenza)
• Required CPR/First Aid Training Certification
• 16 hours of health and safety training, which includes 1 hour of nutrition training
• Required to be a mandated abuse reporter

Additional Requirements

• Must pass a health screening and TB test
• Must pass background fingerprint clearance
• Must be 18 years or older
• The ability to lift up to 40lbs may be needed during some job duties
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive compensation based on education and experience.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan.
• Paid Sick Leave in accordance with California law.
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (where applicable).
• Professional development and ongoing training opportunities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person