4K teacher

Summary

The 4K Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing a developmentally appropriate, engaging, and inclusive learning environment for four-year-old children. This role focuses on supporting children’s social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development while preparing them for a successful transition to kindergarten. The 4K Teacher works in alignment with the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS), Department of Public Instruction (DPI) requirements, and all childcare licensing regulations.

The 4K Teacher creates structured daily routines, lesson plans, and hands-on learning experiences that promote curiosity, independence, and positive behavior. This position requires ongoing communication and collaboration with families, center leadership, and support staff. The teacher also maintains accurate documentation, completes required assessments, and ensures a safe, nurturing, and respectful classroom environment.

The ideal candidate holds a valid Wisconsin DPI teaching license, demonstrates strong classroom management skills, and is passionate about early childhood education and school readiness.

Duties

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS)
• Create a structured daily schedule that supports learning, play, rest, meals, and transitions
• Support children’s social-emotional development, self-regulation, and positive behavior through guidance and modeling
• Prepare children for kindergarten by fostering early literacy, math, problem-solving, and language skills
• Maintain a safe, clean, and nurturing classroom environment in compliance with Wisconsin DCF licensing regulations
• Conduct ongoing observations and assessments and document children’s progress
• Communicate regularly and professionally with families regarding child development, behavior, and classroom activities
• Collaborate with assistants, support staff, and center leadership to ensure consistent classroom practices
• Adapt instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including children with special needs or individualized plans
• Promote independence, responsibility, and respect among children
• Supervise children at all times, including indoors, outdoors, and during transitions
• Maintain accurate attendance, lesson plans, and required documentation
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development as required
• Model respectful communication and professional behavior at all times
• Follow all center policies, confidentiality requirements, and mandatory reporting laws

Requirements

• Hold a valid Wisconsin DPI teaching license with appropriate early childhood or elementary education endorsement
• Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for four-year-old children
• Familiarity with the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (WMELS)
• Strong classroom management and positive behavior guidance skills
• Ability to plan, implement, and assess age-appropriate curriculum and activities
• Effective communication skills with children, families, and coworkers
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and comply with licensing and program requirements
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment
• Ability to meet all Wisconsin DCF licensing requirements, including background checks
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain prior to start date)
• Completion of required health and safety trainings
• Reliable attendance and punctuality

Nice To Haves

• Wisconsin Registry Level 12 or higher (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe)
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) communication skills to support children and families in a diverse learning environment
• Experience collaborating with assistant teachers, support staff, and administration

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Paid Vacation

Paid Holiday

Paid Winter Break