Early Childhood Teacher

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The High School Early Childhood Teacher will instruct students in Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways like early childhood classroom assistant teachers, social services, and childcare, and serve as supervisor of the Clay County High School Early Learners Academy. He/she will deliver hands-on lessons, guide CTSO (Career and Technical Student Organization) activities, and prepare teens for industry certifications and post-secondary careers in the education and human services sectors.

Core Duties & Responsibilities

• Curriculum Delivery: Instruct students in the education of early childhood learners, childcare operations, and social services.
• Child Development Associate Curriculum Delivery: Instruct courses within the Child Development Associate program with the assistance and/or support of community partners as appropriate.
• Local Needs Assessment Integration: Teach students to examine the local and regional needs for a well-trained, early childhood labor force and how to meet those needs through a variety of adaptable and transferable skills and credentials.
• Simulated Workplace Management: Transform classroom into a functional, childcare center that mirrors and models community-run environments. Serve as supervisor of the center and its classified staff.
• Soft Skills Coaching: Develop customer service, communication, and professionalism skills needed for successful interaction with young children, their parents, and community members.
• Mentorship: Advise Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) to foster leadership and competitive skills through state or national events.

Qualifications

To teach Early Childhood CTE in West Virginia high schools, candidates must satisfy the WVDE Career Technical Education Teacher requirements:

Industry Qualification: Possess a Professional Teaching Certificate endorsed for Elementary Education, Early Childhood, Primary, Early Education, or Multi-Subjects (K-8), or passage of the Early Childhood Education and Care NOCTI exam.

Documented Industry Experience: Provide official proof of at least two years of full-time, wage-earning experience in the education, childcare, or related field.

Educator Preparation Program (EPP): If not otherwise holding a Professional Teaching Certificate, complete an approved CTE teacher preparation program (either a traditional bachelor's path or an alternative certification program designed for professionals transitioning directly from industry).

Pedagogy Assessment: Pass an official instructional assessment, such as the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) or an approved state equivalent.

*Candidates must hold or be eligible for a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teaching certificate and complete relevant employability exams (e.g., NOCTI). 

Terms of Employment
200 Days
2026-2027 School Year

Compensation
Salary based on experience and education level per Clay County Board of Education Salary Schedule, plus competitive benefits package equal to approximately 35% of direct compensation.

Professional Salary Schedules 26
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