Preschool Teacher

Preschool Teacher for Old Town Cooperative Preschool

At Old Town Cooperative Preschool, the Teacher works in close partnership with engaged parents who actively participate in the day-to-day life of the classroom. Educators collaborate with families to support children’s social, physical, and emotional development through intentional play-based experiences and thoughtful observation. OTCP values teamwork, open communication, and shared learning, and provides ongoing support from experienced early childhood development professionals. Founded in 1971, OTCP is a well-established 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in the North End of Tacoma.

Position Overview

The Preschool Teacher plans and teaches three developmentally appropriate, play-based classes while working closely with parents in a cooperative learning environment. Teachers are supported with daily planning and preparation time and are an integral part of our warm, engaged school community. The Teacher reports to the preschool Board.

Class Schedule

The Preschool Teacher is responsible for planning and teaching the following classes. There is the possibility of the preschool hiring more than one Teacher, so please feel free to apply even if you are only interested in teaching one or two of the classes.

• Walkabouts (2’s Class)- Tuesdays and Thursdays – 9:30–11:00 AM
• Runabouts (3’s Class)- Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays –9:15–11:15 AM
• Pre-Kindergarten- Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays –12:15–2:45 PM

Old Town classes run from September–May, Monday–Friday, in separate morning and afternoon sessions. Paid daily planning and preparation time is provided. Summer hours include payment in one lump sum for a total of 40 hours.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum that supports children’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth
• Incorporate a variety of learning experiences including art, music, dramatic play, and table toys
• Include cultural activities, field trips, and/or classroom visitors related to classroom themes
• Serve as a model for parents by guiding appropriate early childhood philosophy and classroom practices
• Support and collaborate with working parent volunteers during classroom activities
• Establish and maintain compassionate, constructive relationships with children and adult learners
• Attend:
• Monthly Parent Child Preschool Organization (PCPO) meetings
• Monthly Old Town Cooperative Preschool Board meetings (typically held the first Monday of each month)
• Additional workshops, trainings, and special school events as listed on the school calendar and in the Preschool Teacher contract

Qualifications

• Early Childhood Education certificate, education, endorsement, training, and/or significant experience working with children ages 2–5 is preferred. Candidates who bring relevant experience and a willingness to learn are also encouraged to apply.
• Experience working with parents in a cooperative or learning-lab environment preferred
• Experience in cooperative preschool settings preferred
• Ability to obtain First Aid & CPR certification upon hire
• Ability to obtain a current TB (tuberculosis) test, in accordance with applicable regulations, upon hire
• Ability to pass a background check

Benefits

• Competitive pay, between $23-29/hour paid monthly for the 9-month school year (September–May). Pay is dependent on experience and education.
• Summer hours paid in lump sum for June-August
• Paid planning and preparation time
• Paid sick leave and PTO
• Paid federal holidays and paid school closures (e.g., Winter Break, Spring Break)
• Bonuses awarded at the discretion of the Board

Application Information

TO APPLY, COMPLETE THE APPLICATION FORM HERE: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSenT6IRX1USjszeK1i7tZnUYVF8gHEGdRCJxLcXWei2L_gJNA/viewform

Note that a resume and cover letter will need to be uploaded with the application.

With any questions, please contact: [email protected]

For additional program information, visit: www.oldtownpreschool.org

Applications will be reviewed on October 9, 2026

Old Town Cooperative Preschool reaffirms its policy of equal opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or disabled Vietnam era veteran in its programs and activities in accordance with college policy, and applicable federal and state statutes and regulations.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $23.00 - $29.00 per hour

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person