The Preschool Teacher plans and implements daily classroom activities that support children's development while maintaining a safe and nurturing environment. They are also responsible for conducting assessments, maintaining records, and communicating effectively with families.
Requirements summary
Candidates must have at least two years of childcare experience and a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional qualifications include strong communication skills, the ability to adapt teaching strategies, and a commitment to child development.
The Preschool Teacher administers the early childhood education program at the classroom level and supports the Center Director and Coordinator(s) in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities. This position promotes the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth of children while maintaining a safe, clean, and nurturing classroom environment. The Preschool Teacher is responsible for daily classroom operations, documentation, and effective communication with families.
Ideal Candidate
Has a passion for early childhood education and child development
Demonstrates patience, empathy, and strong communication skills
Is dependable, flexible, and able to work effectively in a team environment
Maintains professionalism and confidentiality at all times
Is committed to supporting families and nurturing positive child outcomes
Primary Responsibilities & Duties
Plan and implement daily classroom activities that support children's emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development
Conduct child assessments and maintain accurate classroom records
Prepare lesson plans, collect data, and complete required reports
Adapt teaching strategies to meet the individual interests and learning styles of children
Establish and maintain a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate learning environment
Treat each child with dignity and respect
Ensure proper hygiene practices, including diaper changing as needed
Maintain classroom cleanliness and safety, including laundry, cleaning, dishwashing, and sanitizing toys and equipment
Notify supervisor of needed repairs to classrooms, buildings, playgrounds, equipment, or toys
Promote positive working relationships with coworkers and support a team-oriented environment
Maintain professional conduct when interacting with parents, staff, visitors, and the public
Involve children in age-appropriate classroom routines and responsibilities
Adjust daily schedules to meet the needs of children
Schedule and participate in parent conferences as needed
Build positive relationships with families through daily communication during pickup and drop-off
Inform parents and supervisor of significant changes in a child's behavior
Report any suspected child abuse or neglect to the supervisor in accordance with policy and law
Participate in required trainings and professional development
Enforce all applicable state, federal, licensing, and accreditation regulations
Incorporate and demonstrate the mission, vision, values, and work of Catholic Charities at all times
Maintain flexibility to meet the changing needs of the center's schedule
Perform other duties as assigned
Physical demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls, and talk or hear. Frequently required to walk or stand, reach with hands or arms, climb, crouch, bend, or balance, stoop or kneel. Must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds when picking up children. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close and distance vision. May occasionally be required to drive a motor vehicle.
Work experience requirements
Two (2) years in childcare experience.
Valid NM driver's license with a good driving record.
Must be able to pass a state enforced background check
Must have knowledge and experience on the normal range of development of children.
Strong verbal communication and listening skills to converse with children, fellow professional caregivers and parents or guardians.
Excellent patience and stamina for keeping up with the demands of children of all ages and the program(s) need.
Advanced multitasking and organizational skills to handle multiple children at a time.
Education experience
High School diploma or equivalent required.
45-hour Entry-Level Course preferred or completed within four (4) months after hire date.
CDC preferred. If a certificate is not applicable, a CDC must be obtained within two (2) years after the hire date.
In New Mexico, classroom teacher openings are often shaped by district staffing needs, school calendars, and subject-area shortages, so candidates should expect competition to vary by grade level and certification area. These roles are competitive because districts look for clear licensure alignment, classroom readiness, and experience that matches the posting; on this platform, the job requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, which can save you research time. Before applying, confirm the exact New Mexico credential requirements and compare them with the posting details.
