Dakota Language Preschool Teacher

University of Minnesota Twin Cities; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

The Child Development Laboratory School at the University of Minnesota is seeking a part-time Lead Teacher for the Dakota Immersion classroom. This role involves managing a safe learning environment while promoting Dakota language and cultural understanding among children and families. The position emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing a unique opportunity to engage with early childhood education in an academic setting.

Benefits

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement savings

Tuition benefits

Wellbeing programs

Qualifications

• Education and experience meeting MN licensing requirements.
• Willingness to obtain first aid and Infant CPR certification.
• Ability to work with diverse backgrounds and proficiency in Dakota.

Responsibilities

• Implement Dakota language immersion and cultural teachings.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and professional learning space.
• Conduct daily health checks and monitor child development.

Skills

Effective communication

Developmentally appropriate practices

Cultural competency

Proficiency in Dakota language

Education

High school diploma

24 quarter credits in early childhood education

Assistant teacher certification

Job description

The Child Development Laboratory School (CDLS) is seeking a part-time (30 hours/week) Lead Teacher for the Dakota Immersion and Language Nest classroom. Under the direction of the Preschool Program Director, the lead teacher participates in establishing and maintaining a safe, organized classroom at the CDLS. This includes participation in planning to establish a learning environment that is inclusive and developmentally age-appropriate. The lead teacher will carry out daily activities and monitor child development by providing high-quality care, maintaining classroom materials, first aid, and daily health checks. Housed in the Institute of Child Development at the University of Minnesota, the CDLS provides high-quality early care and serves as a training site for university students majoring in early childhood education.

This position is responsible for a classroom in the Dakota Language Immersion Classroom - The Wahohpi. The role involves participating in staff development, supporting a welcoming environment for research observations and participant testing, and promoting the school's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Occasionally, the lead teacher will host university practicum students observing the classroom.

A key responsibility is to actively support and advance the University’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, as well as anti-racism initiatives.

This position is based on campus at the Child Development Laboratory School. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures. The university offers comprehensive benefits, including medical and dental insurance, retirement savings, tuition benefits, and wellbeing programs. This is a 9-month academic year appointment, at 75% (30 hours/week), with additional hours available in summer.

This position is represented by the AFSCME Union. The hours are Monday through Friday, between 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM. Work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager. The minimum starting pay is to be determined.

Job Responsibilities

Classroom Management (80%)

• Implement Dakota language and cultural teachings to children and families.
• Maintain familiarity with diverse Dakota/Lakota/Nakoda dialects, focusing on Minnesota dialects.
• Support families in learning Dakota language and culture.
• Participate in planning and implementing emergent, developmentally appropriate, and inclusive curriculum.
• Maintain an inclusive, professional, and safe learning space, complying with MN DHS licensing, NAEYC standards, and federal laws (USDA, ADA/IDEA, EOAA).
• Use approved techniques such as small groups, reflective practice, and observations to plan and implement learning experiences.
• Assess children’s learning and development using prescribed tools, in accordance with licensing standards.
• Develop children’s self-image and competence, fostering their role as members of their learning community.
• Prepare instructional materials meeting licensing and accreditation standards.
• Conduct daily environment checks, monitor health and safety, and supervise children within sight and sound indoors and outdoors.
• Maintain confidentiality of staff, children, and family information in compliance with applicable policies.

Communication (10%)

• Establish effective partnerships with parents and maintain regular communication regarding child development and behavior.
• Provide informal and formal updates on children’s progress twice annually.
• Escalate issues to the Program Director as needed.
• Collaborate with fellow teachers and assistants during transitions.

Professional Development (5%)

• Attend staff meetings and professional development sessions.
• Engage in ongoing reflection and professional growth activities.
• Attend early childhood education conferences as available.

Pre-Service Teacher Training and Support Academic Research (5%)

• Develop curriculum and training materials for early childhood and Dakota language teachers.
• Host university practicum students and observe teacher-child interactions.
• Report concerns regarding practicum students and research activities to the Program Director.

Required Qualifications

• Education and experience meeting MN licensing requirements, including a high school diploma, 24 quarter credits in early childhood education, and 4 hours as an assistant teacher.
• Willingness to obtain first aid and Infant CPR certification within 90 days.
• Ability to work effectively with children and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Pass background checks and reference verification per MN licensing standards.
• Proficiency in Dakota language (ACTFL Advanced Low or higher).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in caregiving, education, and supervision of young children from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to observe children and adapt curriculum accordingly.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Understanding of child development and best teaching practices.
• Ability to collaborate effectively and work independently.

Physical Requirements

• Supervise children physically, respond to emergencies, and observe children visually and aurally.
• Perform physical activities such as bending, stooping, standing, reaching, squatting, and sitting.
• Lift children weighing 30-50 pounds and push strollers.