Deerfield Academy·Deerfield, Massachusetts
The Float Teacher supports Lead Teachers in delivering curriculum and ensuring the health, safety, and emotional well-being of children. Responsibilities include maintaining classroom order, assisting with daily caregiving tasks, and communicating effectively with parents.
**sign-On bonus**
The successful candidate will receive a $1,000 sign-on bonus ($500 paid at time of hire and $500 paid at the end of 90 days of employment.
Reporting to the Director of the Early Learning Center, the Floating Teacher will work with the Lead Teachers to support children and carry out the curriculum within the classroom in accordance with the school’s philosophy to ensure the smooth operation of all aspects of The Early Learning Center.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Ensure the health and well-being of the children at the Center, including all aspects of physical and emotional nurturing, while maintaining a safe, stimulating, and comfortable environment in accordance with Early Education & Care (EEC) regulations and the Center’s Parent Handbook;
Assist Lead Teachers with curriculum, preparation and set up of materials, and delivery of the daily curriculum;
Consistently respond to the child’s physical caregiving needs, including changing diapers according to EEC’s sanitary procedures;
Provide parents with written and verbal communication daily regarding their children.
Attend monthly staff meetings and meet with the Director on a regular basis to review concerns and professional development needs;
While upholding safe food handling policies and practices, assist with serving snacks and lunch
Assist in maintaining and organizing the Center’s supplies and equipment to maintain a clean, safe, and orderly environment;
Adhere to safety policies and procedures, including evacuation and emergency procedures, in conformance with state and EEC standards and regulations;
Attend 20 hours of professional development per year, annual CPR re-certification training, and first aid training as needed; register, input, and update PQR training and educational hours on an annual basis;
Other duties as assigned.
The worker is in a classroom and an office environment but is also subject to the hazards of a kitchen where stoves and other appliances are utilized and outside in the elements on a playground with children. The worker is subject to extremes in temperature, both hot and cold, when outdoors. The worker is subject to bodily fluids from children.
Special Instructions for Applicants
Compensation & Benefits
Deerfield Academy offers a competitive total compensation package, where base compensation or salary is just one component. Pay within the published range is determined by factors such as qualifications, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, allowing for growth and progression within the role.
See benefit plan details here [https://deerfield.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2526-benefits-guide-Revised-August-2025.pdf].
Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
Candidates must hold an Associate's degree and possess EEC Teacher Certification with 1-3 years of group childcare experience. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong communication skills, a commitment to diversity, and the ability to handle stressful situations.
Market context
Classroom teacher openings in Massachusetts are often driven by school staffing needs, student support priorities, and subject-area coverage. These roles are competitive because employers look for strong communication, classroom management, and the ability to meet state and district expectations; in this listing, the requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, which can save candidates research time. Before applying, review the certification, schedule, and any required documentation to confirm you meet the posted qualifications.