Teachers
Rainbow Riders values our teachers as the most important element of a high quality program as the day-to-day interactions, communication, curriculum and environment are guided by the teachers. It is critical that teachers understand child development, respect children as unique individuals, and work with our families as partners.
We encourage our teaching staff to embrace the opportunity to grow and to learn from our children and families, as learning is a lifelong process. Every day presents a unique challenge that requires creativity, flexibility, patience, good communication, teamwork, and a love for children. We hope that teachers in our program will enjoy the journey with our families and co-teachers as we strive to provide a wonderful learning environment that encourages each child to reach their fullest potential.
I have worked at Rainbow Riders for over 10 years, and would not work anywhere else. The admin are supportive and approachable, the staff are positive and friendly, and the benefits are above and beyond what is offered at any other childcare center in the area. The Reggio Emilia inspired philosophy and an emergent curriculum allows the children to learn in a developmentally appropriate manner about the things which interest them, while also learning vital social emotional skills. There are many opportunities for professional development, including local and state conferences and continuing education. Laurie Tucker
Pay and Benefits
Compensating our teachers fairly is a high priority at Rainbow Riders. The budget is planned carefully so that tuition increases directly impact teacher pay rates. Annually, our staff salaries and benefits make up around 72% of the overall expenses demonstrating our strong commitment to our teachers. Benefits for full-time staff include: paid leave, health and dental insurance, life insurance, IRA retirement plan with employer matching, subsidized child care, educational and training opportunities.
Professional Development
Rainbow Riders believes that the continued development of teachers is as important as the development of children. Opportunities are available to teachers throughout the year and are discussed during Individualized Professional Development planning meetings. Some of these opportunities include regular staff meetings, in-house mentoring by Consulting Teachers, local training opportunities, state and local conferences, on-line training, community college classes, Child Development Associates credentialing (CDA), and other opportunities.
Qualifications
Employees at Rainbow Riders must possess a positive, professional attitude and a desire to further their knowledge of best practices in working with children and families. Warm, nurturing, energetic personalities are essential, along with good verbal and written communication skills. Experience and at least an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education is preferred but not required. Opportunities for professional development are provided for all staff. If interested in applying for a position, please complete the application and drop it by or mail it to one of our sites, with attention to Human Resources.
Rainbow Riders is an equal opportunity provider and employer.