Position Overview

The Child Development Laboratory School (CDLS) is housed in the Institute of Child Development in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota and is responsible for the development and implementation of a high quality preschool program that promotes best practices in Early Childhood Education.

The philosophical orientation of the Child Development Laboratory School is based on socio-cultural (children learn from others in their social world) and constructivist theories (children create their own meaning from their experiences). Learning and development are best supported by uninterrupted play that is based on exploration, project-based, and emergent. Emergent curriculum encourages learning through a balance of children's interests or identified areas to nurture from observations and assessments. We believe learning should be engaging, interesting, self-motivating, and/or group motivated. It should have a balance of child- and teacher-initiated interest and the teachers' knowledge of development and content. At CDLS, communication with children is warm and respectful to provide a sense of well-being, trust, security, and positive relationships.

This position is responsible for assisting a classroom of children from all backgrounds and identities in accordance with the policies and philosophy of CDLS and the Institute of Child Development. This includes assisting in establishing a learning environment that is inclusive and developmentally age appropriate, developing emergent curriculum (see CDLS Learning Philosophy above), supervising, and monitoring child development, providing high quality care, maintaining classroom materials, first aid and daily health checks. The Assistant Teacher also supports and advances the school's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Assistant Teacher works in collaboration with the area Program Director and the Teacher to plan and implement a high-quality, responsive, enriching, and supportive learning environment that is respectful of each child's background, development, and needs. The weekly curriculum and learning experiences are rich with relational experiences designed to support the development of a range of social, emotional, self-help, language, literacy, cognitive, and motor skills and should align with the Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP) and MN Early Childhood Indicators of Progress-ECIPS (Infant, Toddler, and Preschool).

This position is based on campus. Per UMN policy, work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager.

This position is represented by the AFSCME Union, Local 3801. The hours are M-F, between 8 - 4:30. The work location is near the Minneapolis campus. The minimum starting pay for this position is $20.80.

Job Responsibilities

Classroom Leadership (30%)

• Assist in establishing and maintaining an inclusive, professional and safe learning space for children of all backgrounds, identities, abilities and developmental stages in compliance with MN DHS licensing and NAEYC accreditation standards, as well as relevant federal laws (e.g. USDA, ADA/IDEA, EOAA).
• In conjunction with the Teacher and Area Coordinator, plan and execute a consistent daily visible schedule of routines and activities.
• Conduct daily checks of the environment; assign, monitor, and follow up on the health and safety of the children and ensures the supervision of children are within sight and sound as per NAEYC and MN DHS Licensing (indoors and outdoors).
• Maintain and secure the confidentiality of information and records regarding staff, children, and families as mandated by the U of MN (e.g. FERPA, MN DHS-Licensing, MN Dept. of Ed., NAEYC accreditation and USDA, HIPPA and ADA).
• Participate in on-going reflection (monthly and yearly) on evaluation of the program and personal professional development aligning with performance and job responsibilities.

Curriculum (30%)

• Participate in planning and implementing emergent curriculum for children in a developmentally appropriate and inclusive environment.
• Use small groups, reflective practice, and observations when supporting the planning and implementation of learning experiences.
• Collaborate with the Teacher and Area Coordinator to help plan and implement curriculum, centering the educational work with children on their emerging interests and on their learning in relationship with others in accordance to the UMCDLS Learning Philosophy.
• Assist in developing the child's role as an integral member of their learning community through developing the child's self-image and competence.
• Assist in preparing materials required for daily instruction and classroom environment for the children, ensuring they meet MN DHS licensing and NAEYC accreditation standards.

Documentation and Assessments (20%)

• Through authentic observation, assist in assessing individual children's learning and development using the assigned assessment tool, Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP), in accordance with MN DHS licensing and NAEYC accreditation standards.
• Partner with the Teacher and Area Coordinator to complete and maintain accurate documentation for "Desired Results," compliance with the NAEYC standards, and anecdotal records on children. Provide required information to the Teacher and Area Coordinator when meeting established deadlines.
• Assist in reviewing assessments and documentation of children's learning to revisit, reflect, and extend emergent curriculum, investigations, and small group explorations.
• Update and extend documentation to reflect children's work, processes, questions, and dialogues between teacher to child, child-to-child, with encounters, investigations and projects.

Communication (20%)

• Establish effective partnerships with parents and reciprocal processes of communication on a regular basis. Assist in maintaining an open verbal and written communication with parents regarding child development, behavior issues, parent education, and other child related issues.
• Regularly communicate parent, child, and/or staff issues with Teacher and Area Coordinator (i.e., concerned parents, a child's behavior problems, or an employee's performance issues).
• Regularly communicate and collaborate with fellow teachers (e.g. assistants, as child(ren) transition to different classrooms).

Required Qualifications

• A combination of education, and teacher experience that meets State of MN State Human Services Licensing Act, Rule 3 (9503.0033) requirements for Assistant Child Care Teacher, such as a high school diploma or the equivalent, at least 12 quarter credits (8 semester credits) in early childhood education from an accredited post-secondary school, and 2,080 hours as an aide or intern. https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/9503.0033/ for additional qualifications.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with children and families from all backgrounds and identities.
• Have or be willing to obtain within 90 days 8 hours approved first aid training and Infant CPR.
• Pass background fingerprint study and reference verification that meets requirements of State of MN State Human Services Licensing Act, Rule 11.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to repeatedly perform each of the following:
• Physically supervise young children, protecting and preventing harm to them.
• Immediately respond to emergency situations.
• Visually and aurally observe children in their environment.
• Bend, stoop, stand, reach, squat, sit (on floor and/or child size chairs).
• Carry and lift children weighing between 30-50 pounds.
• Push 4-6 seat stroller while walking with children (infants and toddlers).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in providing daily care, developmentally appropriate education, and supervision of young children from a variety of backgrounds, identities, and communities.
• Ability to observe children and adapt curriculum based on their developmental needs and interests.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, with people from a variety of backgrounds and identities.
• Demonstrated ability to articulate an understanding of child development and best teaching practices.
• Strong collaboration skills to effectively partner with colleagues, parents, and children in a professional manner.
• Proven ability to work independently, take initiative, and prioritize.

Department Overview

The Institute of Child Development (ICD) at the University of Minnesota is one of the oldest departments for the study of children's development in the United States. Since its inception in 1925, a key tenet of the department's mission has been to "give away" the science of child development which creates an environment rich with collaborations, new ideas, and exciting interdisciplinary work. ICD, which is recognized internationally, offers degrees in developmental psychology and early childhood education, including the long-standing top-ranked PhD in developmental psychology. Housed in ICD, the Child Development Laboratory School (CDLS) provides the highest quality early care and is a training site for university students majoring in early childhood education. Another critical component of ICD is the Center for Early Education and Development (CEED) which conducts applied research, professional development and policy education and community outreach to effect positive change in early education, childcare, and public policy. The Institute strives to create an inclusive environment where every student, staff member, and faculty member feels valued and has meaningful experiences that affirm and embrace their identities, perspectives, and cultural backgrounds.

College Overview

The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the third largest college at the University, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. That's why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment,
embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).