Master Teacher

Job Identification:

Position Title:	Master Teacher
Status:	Non-Exempt
Location:	Downstream Learning Center
Department:	Downstream Learning Center
Reports to:	Director of Childcare/Site Manager
Work Schedule:	Full Time
Safety sensitive:	Yes*
Driver’s License Required:	Yes

Position Summary:

The Master Teacher is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports children's growth and school readiness. Under the direction of the Director of Childcare, the Master Teacher plans and implements curriculum, supervises classroom activities, mentors classroom staff, and ensures compliance with all applicable licensing regulations, policies, and procedures. The Master Teacher must maintain positive relationships with children, families, and staff, possess knowledge of child development and age-appropriate practices, and be willing to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate a school minibus. The individual serving in this position will support the mission of the O-Gah-Pah Learning Center and Downstream Learning Center by providing high-quality childcare in a safe and supportive environment.

The mission of the O-Gah-Pah Learning Center and the Downstream Learning Center is to provide exceptional quality childcare by embracing the best research and knowledge of child development and health, to assist children in developing a firm foundation that will sustain them in becoming contributing adults in tomorrow's society, and to comfort parents by providing their children with a safe, supporting environment.

Essential Job Functions:

• Maintain constant supervision of children in care, overseeing all activities to encourage participation and ensure safety.
• Continuously circulate throughout the classroom and activity areas to assist children and ensure safety.
• Provide guidance and support to children when social or academic adjustments are needed or when out-of-control behaviors occur.
• Use appropriate positive interactions when addressing discipline concerns.
• Interact with all children in a nurturing and friendly manner, using a calm, in-control tone of voice, addressing each child by name, making eye contact, and using appropriate physical guidance (e.g., a hand on the child’s shoulder or elbow, holding the child’s hand, etc.).
• Treat each child and parent/guardian with respect.
• Provide a well-balanced daily schedule that includes both active and quiet activities.
• Develop and implement lesson plans, including at least five (5) weekly activities based on the Director’s curriculum.
• Prepare and organize lesson materials and ensure teaching aids are properly stored after use.
• Maintain appropriate communication with staff, parents/guardians, and children.
• Maintain a classroom environment that is age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate for each child, including those with special needs.
• Adhere to all Department of Human Services (DHS) regulations, OLC/DLC policies and procedures, Quapaw Nation policies and procedures, and all applicable parent policies and procedures.
• Administer medications in accordance with policies and ensure appropriate documentation is completed by the parent/guardian.
• Maintain close communication with the Director of Childcare regarding children with special needs.
• Provide daily written communication to parents/guardians regarding each child’s activities and progress.
• Maintain a consistently professional demeanor.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in recommended training, workshops, and conferences.
• Perform daily housekeeping duties (e.g., sweeping, vacuuming, sanitizing toys).

Non-essential Job Functions:

• Attend meetings, seminars, workshops, and training sessions as required to support professional development and program objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.