HOPKINS HOUSE-A CENTER FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES·Fairfax County, Virginia
The Associate Teacher supports the implementation of the curriculum and manages classroom operations, assuming full responsibility during the Lead Teacher's absence. They are also responsible for maintaining student records, communicating with parents, and mentoring Teacher Apprentices.
The Associate Teacher is responsible for supporting the implementation of the curriculum under the direction of the Lead Teacher and for managing classroom operations during the Lead Teacher's short-term absences.
In the extended absence of the Lead Teacher, the Associate Teacher assumes responsibility for planning, coordinating, and implementing the daily educational program and classroom activities to ensure a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for all students.
The Associate Teacher also supports student recruitment initiatives, participates in Hopkins House's public policy and advocacy efforts, and serves as a mentor to Teacher Apprentices, helping to develop the next generation of early childhood educators.
Plans and implements daily lesson plans; Participates in in-service training and attends local and regional early child development conferences, seminars and meetings; Maintains safe and clean classroom environment; Organizes and maintains developmentally appropriate classroom; Maintains classroom records, including children's Individualized Education Plan (IEP), attendance records, health and safety forms and procedures, and written reports; Meets regularly and frequently with parents; Posts daily descriptions of classroom activities and individual child development for parents using the BrightWheel app. Orders classroom supplies and submits custodial and repair requests; Ensures compliance with state and local licensing rules; Supervises classroom staff; and, Provides such other related duties as may, from time-to-time, be assigned.
Associate's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or Special Education; or an associate's degree or higher in another field supplemented by a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Early Childhood Education, or an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Endorsement.
At least 2 years of full-time employment in the Hopkins House Preschool Academy or at least 3 years of full-time employment at other licensed and NAEYC accredited early childhood education setting or K-3 public, charter, or private school.
Demonstrated classroom experience and a strong understanding of child development and curriculum planning. Experienced in the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS). Experience supporting the development of children with special needs. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English. Fluency in spoken Spanish a plus but not required.
Hopkins House offers a wide range of generous employee benefits, including paid time off (i.e., sick, vacation, family leave, etc.), paid holidays, health and dental coverage, and childcare tuition discounts.
Market context
In Virginia, associate teacher openings are commonly driven by ongoing staffing needs in early childhood and K-12 settings, especially where classrooms need dependable support staff. These roles are competitive because employers often look for candidates who are at least 18, hold a high school diploma or GED, and can pass background checks, while child care experience or an early education degree or CDA can strengthen an application. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your credentials and background-check readiness before applying.
Apprentice teacher
Associate teacher
Associate teacher
