Looking for employment as a preschool teacher? Let’s talk first about where preschool teachers can be found and the level of education that is needed to become a preschool teacher. Teachers are needed in a wide variety of academic settings ranging from private schools to public schools, or even the chain daycare facilities. Different levels of training and education are needed depending on the type of preschool you would like to work in. Most public and private school district preschool teachers are required to have a bachelor’s degree, while other smaller day care centers will accept a high school diploma with a certification or an associate’s degree. In addition, a state license and CDA (child development associate) or CCP (child care professional) may also be required, as well as, previous experience as a teacher’s assistant. Furthermore, potential employers may require a certification in CPR and first aid to be considered, and part of the application process will most likely entail a criminal background check. Now that you’re ready to find a job as a preschool teacher, let’s get started!
How to Find a Job as a Preschool Teacher
Put together a resume.
Your resume should include your education, current and previous employment, qualifications, and any related experience dealing with children. You also might want to include any training you have had in special areas. For example, first aid knowledge, CPR certification, and fluency in additional languages would be beneficial for any teaching position.
Do the research.
Utilize any and all forms of career placement assistance. The majority of post-secondary institutions offer job placement to students, which is a great place to start if this applies to you. Complete an online search, telephone directory exploration, or call your local chamber of commerce to begin putting a list together of the preschools in your area that you would like to work for. If interested, you can also register with an employment agency that can help match you to a school in your area. Be sure you understand the conditions of this option as some agency’s charge a fee to find you a job.
Begin the application process.
Call the preschool and local school districts on your list to see if there are any open positions for preschool teachers. If so, find out what is required for the application process and then get started. Fill out the application and submit it with your resume. It can also help to have a few letters of recommendation from teachers or previous employers to submit with your application and resume. Seek out and attend any nearby job fairs with a few copies of your current resume for those on-the-spot interviews.
Prepare for your interview.
Bring a copy of your resume, even if you have already submitted it with your prospective employer previously. Dress the part and be prepared to answer questions. You will most likely talk about your background and your professional credentials. There may also be a discussion concerning your educational approach and resources you use, as well as, your interest in working with children. A possible employer is going to want to know why you want to work for them and what it is that makes you the one they should choose for the position.
Now that you have completed the application process, submitted your resume, and went on the interview, you may have just gotten your first job as a preschool teacher. Congratulations!
Emharris6106 says
I am a certified Birth through Kindergarten teacher with a Special Needs Endorsement and I am having a difficult time finding employment. Although i have fourteen years Head Start experience and excel in facilitative skills such as CLASS, I been offered $13,000.00 a year. Working towards a Masters Degree, I humnly accept the offer. Being overqualified and unemployed, my creditials and experience are not enough today. When applying for employment in Georgia’s Public School system to be a kindergarten teacher although I am qualified, my interviewers share their need for P-5 Certification. What are the benefits of being passionate enough to earn my credentials and now at 54 years of age and 45 thousand dollars of school loans i cannot find employment.