Lakes and Pines CAC, Inc. is a 501(c)3 charitable, educational and nonprofit organization serving the seven‑county area of Aitkin, Carlton, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs and Pine.
Application: Online or paper application forms are accepted. Paper applications may be mailed, faxed to 320‑679‑4139, or delivered in person to 1700 Maple Ave E, Mora, MN 55051.
Position
Title: Child Care Partnership Teacher
Department: Early Childhood & Family Development
Reports to: Education Coordinator
Job Summary
The Child Care Partnership Teacher designs and implements a classroom for up to twelve Head Start preschool children through a community‑based child care program. Responsibilities include daily classroom supervision, conducting two 1½‑hour home visits per child, and holding two parent‑teacher conferences each year.
Qualifications
- Education: Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education (may be waived with significant related experience)
- Experience: More than 1 year in early childhood education
- Authorization: Valid Driver’s License; completed DHS Background Study; Employee Physical completed
Skills, Abilities & Other Knowledge
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Time‑management and organizational skills; ability to set priorities and meet deadlines without supervision
- Ability to support the agency’s mission and represent the agency publicly
- Independent and team‑based work skills; handles diverse work problems
- Adaptability to last‑minute assignments and stressful requests
- Ability to work across socio‑economic and cultural differences
- Willingness to attend trainings, classes and meetings to improve job skills
- Mentor new staff members
- Knowledge of agency policies and procedures, safety, technology, data practices; understanding of federal, state and local guidelines; knowledge of child abuse laws, mandated reporting, Head Start standards, and USDA guidelines
- Familiarity with Creative Curriculum and Desired Results Developmental Profile
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
- Program Operations – Reinforce the role of parents as primary educators; model appropriate adult/child interaction; conduct developmental, sensory, hearing, vision, behavioral, and nutritional assessments; provide parent/teacher conferences; deliver two 1 ½ hour home visits per child; set developmentally appropriate goals; conduct ongoing assessments and report progress; provide follow‑up activities; complete individualized Family Partnership Agreements; plan and implement classroom activities with center staff; submit weekly lesson plans; prepare classroom environment; maintain required CLASS scores; offer activities matching Individual Education Plans; complete Assessment Checklists quarterly.
- Program Compliance – Adhere to program philosophy, Head Start Performance Standards, Service Area Plans, active supervision, standards of conduct, policies, and agency mission; apply Blood Borne Pathogens Policy, ADAAA Policy, Data Privacy Policy; monitor attendance; ensure CACFP standards for mealtimes; implement emergency procedures; maintain professional development plan.
- Program Development – Attend authorized family‑service meetings; collaborate with co‑workers, partners, and external agencies (ECSE, mental health providers, WIC, medical and dental clinics); work with THRIVE coaches to assist families; assist with physical examinations and follow‑up care; participate in center activities.
- Program Communication – Recruit volunteers; inform parents about volunteer opportunities; maintain case notes and referrals; document partnership agreement progress; refer children with suspected or diagnosed disabilities to the Special Services Coordinator.
Job Factors
- Supervision of Others: Not responsible.
- Safety of Others: Responsible for others’ safety; enforce safety standards.
- Contacts: Within own department and with other departments, customers, vendors, and the public.
- Physical Demand: Able to lift 50 pounds; sit, stand, bend, stoop, reach; operate position-specific equipment.
- Travel: Reliable transportation; valid driver’s license and auto insurance; travels for job duties, trainings and meetings as required.
General Agency Requirements
- Professionalism: Create a positive work atmosphere; treat others respectfully; continually develop skills.
- Community Representation: Represent Lakes and Pines CAC positively; adhere to the Community Action Code of Ethics; understand community barriers.
- Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality of agency, program and customer information.
Equal Opportunity Employer
In accordance with federal and state laws, Lakes and Pines CAC is an equal opportunity employer, contractor and provider of services. The agency maintains a policy of non‑discrimination with all employees and applicants for employment. All aspects of employment are governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and are not influenced by race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, public assistance status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity, status as a parent, familial status, or in the local human rights commission or any other legally protected status.