2 & 3's Teacher

Position Summary

The 2 & 3's Teacher is responsible for creating a nurturing, responsive, and engaging learning environment that supports toddlers’ social-emotional development, emerging independence, and early learning. This role intentionally implements Pyramid Model practices and aligns with indicators measured by TPITOS/TPOT, including relationship-based care, supportive environments, intentional teaching, and individualized responses to behavior.

The teacher works collaboratively with families and colleagues to promote positive outcomes for all children and to ensure a high-quality, developmentally appropriate classroom.

Essential Responsibilities

Nurturing and Responsive Relationships (Pyramid Model: Tier 1)

• Build warm, trusting, and responsive relationships with each child through consistent care, positive interactions, and emotional availability


• Use developmentally appropriate, respectful communication with children throughout the day


• Support children’s emotional expression and emerging self-regulation skills


• Partner with families to support continuity of care between home and school

Supportive Learning Environment (Pyramid Model: Tier 1)

• Design and maintain a safe, engaging, and well-organized learning environment aligned with toddlers’ developmental needs


• Establish predictable routines and schedules that support security and independence


• Use visual supports, clear expectations, and transitions to promote positive behavior


• Ensure materials are accessible, inclusive, culturally responsive, and promote exploration

Social-Emotional Teaching Practices (Pyramid Model: Tier 2)

• Model and teach age-appropriate social skills (e.g., turn-taking, gentle touches, problem-solving)


• Use emotionally supportive strategies such as labeling feelings, coaching, and modeling calm behavior


• Embed social-emotional learning intentionally throughout daily routines and play


• Use evidence-based strategies consistent with TPITOS indicators to support peer interactions

Individualized Behavior Support (Pyramid Model: Tier 3, as needed)

• Observe and document children’s behavior to identify patterns, triggers, and strengths


• Respond to challenging behavior using developmentally appropriate, relationship-based, and preventative strategies


• Collaborate with supervisors, families, and support teams to implement individualized plans when necessary


• Maintain a strengths-based, non-punitive approach to behavior guidance

Curriculum, Observation, and Planning

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences


• Conduct regular observations and documentation to inform instruction and individualized support


• Use data and reflection to improve teaching practices in alignment with TPITOS indicators


• Maintain accurate and timely classroom documentation

Health, Safety, and Professionalism

• Follow all licensing regulations, health and safety policies, and supervision requirements


• Maintain active supervision at all times


• Participate in ongoing professional development related to the Pyramid Model, social-emotional development, best practices for toddlers, health and safety, etc.


• Work collaboratively and respectfully with teaching teams and leadership

Required Qualifications

• CDA, Associate’s, or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field (or willingness to work toward credential)


• Experience working with toddlers (ages 2–3)


• Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practice


• Commitment to implementing Pyramid Model practices


• Ability to build strong relationships with young children and families

Preferred Qualifications

• Training or experience with the Pyramid Model and/or TPITOS


• Training in conscious discipline, positive behavior support, or infant-toddler mental health


• Experience using observation-based assessment tools

Core Competencies

• Warm, responsive, and relationship-centered teaching


• Strong observation and reflection skills


• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset


• Patience, flexibility, and emotional regulation


• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practice

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds


• Ability to sit, stand, and engage in floor-based play for extended periods


• Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors


• Willing and able to participate and engage students in outdoor activities in all weather - we go outside EVERY DAY!