DMPK Project Representative

Overview

The Child Care Teacher utilizes the Reggio education approach to plan, develop, and implement creative and developmentally appropriate lesson plans while providing a safe, secure, and engaging environment for children ages six weeks to six years
. As part of a collaborative teaching team, this role supports children’s self-esteem, growth, and development while fostering a positive learning experience that encourages each child to reach their full potential.

• Plan, develop, and implement lesson plans for the assigned classroom.
• Document children’s daily progress and activities and prepare reports for parents.
• Maintain a clean, organized classroom free of health hazards and infection control risks.
• Supervise teacher aides and volunteers within assigned classrooms.
• Support program goals that promote autonomy, respect for children’s abilities, parent involvement, and enriched learning experiences.
• Demonstrate understanding and application of Reggio concepts in indoor and outdoor classroom settings.
• Adhere to licensing and accrediting body requirements and standards.
• Develop lesson plans and goals that support cognitive, social, and motor development.
• Promote gross and fine motor skills, language development, and independence.
• Enhance self-concept and self-esteem through positive interactions with children and families.
• Prepare, review, and maintain required written reports and records for each child.
• Follow established policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines.
• Participate in staff meetings, special sessions, and mandatory continuing education events.
• Maintain collaborative relationships with teachers and staff.
• Communicate with team leaders, site supervisors, or directors regarding children’s and classroom needs.
• Review child data to support smooth transitions for children and families.

• Apply infection control procedures and maintain environmental safety awareness.
• Ensure routine cleaning of classroom furniture, toys, bookshelves, and equipment.
• Sweep and clean floors to remove safety hazards.
• Remove broken toys and report unsafe surfaces.
• Ensure appropriate playground supervision and staff coverage.
• Prepare, label, store, and secure cleaning and bleach solutions properly.
• Coordinate environmental needs to maintain a safe, clean, and well-stocked classroom.

• Perform other assigned duties and participate in special projects to support the mission of VCUHS and the department.
• Accept alternate assignments as required.

• Previous experience working with children ages six weeks to six years (paid or unpaid).
• Minimum of two years of formal experience.
• Ability to bend frequently and climb steps or ladders.
• Strong reasoning, problem-solving, and logical thinking skills.
• Effective hearing, speaking, reading, and writing abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and noisy environment.
• Ability to manage frequent and intense customer interactions.
• Ability to adapt to change and manage multiple priorities.

• Experience working with children ages six weeks to two years.
• Familiarity with the Reggio philosophical approach to education.

Required Education (one of the following):

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Psychology, Psychology, or a closely related field
• High School Diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of 40 hours of coursework in early childhood education or a related field
• Equivalent combination of education and experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education

Preferred: Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate