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Early Childhood Education Coach, Community of Practice

A community of practice (CoP) is a group of individuals who come together to pursue a shared purpose, exchange knowledge, and foster learning and change. For leaders of a given field, having a CoP to rely on can be an essential source of support, continuous development, and well-being.

In our case, this shared purpose is catalyzing excellence throughout our region’s early learning system so that all children and families, regardless of identity, have access to high quality, affordable education and care.

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Coaches serve as a supportive resource for early childhood (ages 0-5) educators and program leaders, working to strengthen instructional practices and promote high-quality, developmentally appropriate care and education across the region. ECE Coaches work directly alongside caregivers and teaching teams to guide, model, and reinforce Ideal Learning practices in multiple early childhood settings throughout the region. Through coaching, observation, modeling, and professional development, the ECE Coach helps improve educator practice and positive outcomes for young children.

This position will report to the Senior Director, Community of Practice. 

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as collaborator and resource to early childhood (ages 0-5) educators and program leaders at Urban Sprouts, and with our community partners at sites across the 24:1 to support continuous quality improvement throughout the region

• Promote and support the implementation of Ideal Learning practices across diverse early childhood programs

• Conduct classroom observations and provide reflective, strengths- based feedback to educators

• Collect and analyze data to monitor individual teacher/program progress, evaluate coaching effectiveness, and identify areas for improvement

• Use coaching strategies to guide early childhood educators in planning, implementing, and refining curriculum and instructional practices; emphasis placed on addressing individual needs identified in program assessment tools

• Support early childhood educators in understanding child development and applying developmentally appropriate care and education

• Facilitate professional development opportunities, including trainings, workshops, and small group learning experiences to early childhood programs within the community

• Assist early childhood programs in aligning curriculum and teaching practices with best practices, standards, and program goals

• Build trusting relationships with early childhood educators and program leaders that encourage growth, reflection, and professional confidence

• Maintain documentation related to coaching activities, observations, and professional development outcomes

• Collaborate with internal teams and community partners to support program-wide and regional early childhood initiatives

You might be a great fit for this work if you:

• Possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.

• Have 5+ years, hands-on experience as a lead teacher in early childhood (ages 0-5) classrooms and have a strong understanding of Constructivist, Developmentally Appropriate Practices (as identified by the National Association for the Education of Young Children - NAEYC)

• Possess prior experience in adult-based education, coaching, mentoring, and supporting early childhood educators in reflective and growth-focused ways

• Are comfortable working directly in classroom settings, modeling instructional strategies and engaging in observation and feedback

• Have experience working with diverse, urban early childhood communities and value culturally responsive and inclusive practices

• Are committed to equity and inclusion and intentionally center these principles in your work with early childhood educators, children, and families

• Enjoy building trusting relationships with educators from a variety of backgrounds and experiences

• Adapt to support various early childhood programs across multiple  sites

• Able and willing to travel between program locations throughout the region

• Are a strong communicator who approaches mentoring/coaching with empathy, professionalism, and collaboration

• Are passionate about strengthening early childhood education to improve outcomes for all children throughout the region

Compensation & Benefits

Salary commensurate with experience.

Our generous benefits include:

• Medical Health Insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one year service anniversary

• Dental & Vision insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one year service anniversary

• Free snacks and beverages

• Free CPR/First Aid training as well as other trainings throughout the year

• 2 Paid Mental Health Days a year

• One Week of Paid Sick/Vacation time to start, Two Weeks after Two Years, Three Weeks after Five Years

• One Week of Paid Holiday Vacation time during our annual winter break

• One Week of Paid Holiday Vacation during our annual Spring break

• Three Day Paid Fall Break during Thanksgiving

• All Federal Holidays Paid, to include Juneteenth and MLK day

• Special Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel)

• 403 B (comparable to 401K) retirement plan

The Classroom Teacher provides leadership within the classroom to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment grounded in a Reggio Emilia–inspired philosophy. This role is responsible for curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, documentation of children’s learning, and fostering strong relationships with families. The Classroom Teacher serves as a facilitator of child-led inquiry and a collaborative partner to colleagues while advancing the mission and values of Urban Sprouts. This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Classroom Operations

• Maintain at all times high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the school’s philosophy and curriculum approach.

• Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects children’s interests and supports inquiry-based learning.

• Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns.

• Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage.

• Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community.

• Support and lead with Co- Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom.

• Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements.

Curriculum and Documentation

• Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.

• Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible.

• Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend children’s thinking and inquiry.

• Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.

• Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms.

• Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice.

Family and Child Engagement

• Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families.

• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of children’s growth and development.

• Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives.

• Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices.

• Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise.

Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities

• Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team.

• Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, trainings, and school events.

• Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication.

• Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards.

• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program.

Farm to Table Integration

• Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate.

• Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects.

• Support children’s participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field required.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting. Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role.

• Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning.

• Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.

• Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.

Core Competencies and Expectations

• Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture.

• Builds meaningful relationships with children and families.

• Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

• Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively.

• Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts.

• Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.

Urban Sprouts Child Development Center is looking for enthusiastic educators to join our support team that are as passionate as we are about developing the whole child. Self Motivated Team Players are needed! We are in need of part time floaters that can support with all age groups, give teachers time for lesson planning and coaching, breaks and closing classrooms.

Benefits & Perks for Part Time Staff

• Free Breakfast & Lunch, Snacks and Drinks

• Free Professional Development Courses

Requirements

· Must be 18 years of age or older - 16 & 17 year olds may apply, state licensing requirements are different and you would be considered a Junior Aide that would not be left alone in ratio with children.

· Must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting

· The ability to meet state requirements for education and experience

About US

Urban Sprouts is a private non profit Reggio Emilia inspired early childhood center in the heart of University City. Our school is a joyful, encouraging, and diverse educational community that honors and empowers every aspect of children’s learning. Our goal is to support each child in her or his development as a socially capable, creative, and inspired citizen. We are NAEYC Accredited!

The Pre-k Teacher provides leadership within the classroom to ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment grounded in a Reggio Emilia–inspired philosophy. This role is responsible for curriculum design and implementation, classroom management, documentation of children’s learning, and fostering strong relationships with families. Pre-k Teacher serves as a facilitator of child-led inquiry and a collaborative partner to colleagues while advancing the mission and values of Urban Sprouts. This role reports directly to the Head of Pedagogy and Assistant Head of Pedagogy.

Compensation & Benefits:

Pay Range: $21 - $25 per hour (USD), Salary commensurate with experience and education.

Our generous benefits include:

• Eligibility to participate in our Teacher Housing program

• Medical Health Insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary

• Dental & Vision insurance of which we pay 75% of the premium to start and 90% of the premium after your one-year service anniversary

• Free snacks and beverages

• Free CPR/First Aid training as well as other trainings throughout the year

• 2 Paid Mental Health Days a year

• All Federal Holidays Paid, to include Juneteenth and MLK day

• Special Staff Appreciation Event in Summer (typically involving free travel)

• 403 B (comparable to 401K) retirement plan

Paid Time Off (PTO):

• 5 weeks of PTO starting at year one 

• 7 weeks after 2 years 

• 8 weeks after 5 years 

*This total PTO includes several pre-scheduled breaks throughout the year:

• 1 week Spring Break (March) 

• 2 weeks Winter Break (December/January) 

• 1 week Summer Break (July) 

*Flexible PTO for personal use:

• 1 week in your first year (starts after first 30 days)

• 2 weeks after your second year 

• 3 weeks after your third year

Key Responsibilities

Daily Classroom Operations

● Maintain at all times high-quality child care standards grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and aligned with the school’s philosophy and curriculum approach.

● Design and maintain an inviting, intentional classroom environment that reflects children’s interests and supports inquiry-based learning.

● Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children, responding promptly and appropriately to incidents or concerns.

● Maintain child-to-staff ratios at all times and collaborate with leadership to ensure proper classroom coverage.

● Establish consistent classroom routines that promote independence, responsibility, and community.

● Support and lead with Co- Teacher(s) and support staff within the classroom.

● Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and required documentation in accordance with licensing requirements.

Curriculum and Documentation

● Lead the development and implementation of emergent, project-based curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach.

● Observe children closely and document learning through photographs, written reflections, and displays that make learning visible.

● Plan intentional provocations and experiences that extend children’s thinking and inquiry.

● Use assessment tools and documentation to inform instruction and individualize learning experiences.

● Collaborate with the pedagogical team to reflect on curriculum, plan next steps, and ensure alignment across classrooms.

● Participate in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of child development and Reggio-inspired practice.

Family and Child Engagement

● Maintain strong, respectful, and consistent communication with families.

● Conduct parent-teacher conferences and share documentation of children’s growth and development.

● Support family engagement events and school-wide initiatives.

● Partner with families using strengths-based and culturally responsive practices.

● Collaborate with leadership and support staff when developmental or behavioral concerns arise.

Team Collaboration and Professional Responsibilities

● Serve as a collaborative and supportive member of the teaching team.

● Model professionalism, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

● Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, training, and school events.

● Support Assistant Teachers through mentorship, coaching, and clear communication.

● Maintain working knowledge of Missouri State Child Care Licensing regulations and NAEYC standards.

● Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and sustainability of the program.

Garden to Table Integration

● Integrate garden, kitchen, and farm-to-table experiences into classroom learning when appropriate.

● Collaborate with kitchen and farm staff to extend seasonal programming into curriculum projects.

● Support children’s participation in food preparation, gardening, and related hands-on learning experiences while ensuring health and safety compliance.

Qualifications

● Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.

● Minimum of 3 years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting.

● Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role.

● Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning.

● Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.

● Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.

Core Competencies and Expectations

● Demonstrates strong leadership within the classroom and fosters a collaborative team culture.

● Builds meaningful relationships with children and families.

● Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

● Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively.

● Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts.

● Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.

Position Summary
The After School Site Lead manages daily operations of the after school program at the Urban Sprouts campus, ensuring a safe, structured, and engaging after school environment that balances academic support and enrichment through a hands-on learning model. This position is part time Monday, Wednesday, Friday 2pm-6pm and Tuesday, Thursday 2pm-7pm.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily program schedule including:

• Check-in/Attendance

• Meals-Snack

• Academic block (homework, reading/math support)

• Enrichment rotations (STEAM, gardening, arts, SEL)

• Reflection and dismissal

• Supervise staff and maintain required staff-to-student ratios at all times.

• Ensure safe student arrival from partner schools and accurate daily attendance tracking.

• Coordinate structured rotation + student choice model to ensure exposure to all program areas.

• Monitor attendance trends and implement follow-up strategies with families.

• Ensure consistent implementation of: Social Emotional Learning (SEL) practices (check-ins, reflection circles)

• Positive behavior supports

• Inclusive practices for students with IEPs/504s

• Maintain communication with families during pickup and through ongoing outreach.

• Support program evaluation, surveys, and data collection.

• Ensure safe, well-managed use of indoor and outdoor learning environments (garden, kitchen, classroom spaces).

Qualifications

● Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.

● Minimum of 3 years of experience in a classroom setting, preferably school age related.

● Experience leading a classroom or readiness to step into a lead educator role.

● Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia approach, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning.

● Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.

● Commitment to reflective practice and professional growth.

Core Competencies and Expectations

● Demonstrates strong leadership skills and fosters a collaborative team culture.

● Builds meaningful relationships with children and families.

● Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

● Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively.

● Aligns daily practice with the mission, values, and philosophy of Urban Sprouts.

● Demonstrates curiosity, flexibility, and a deep respect for children as capable learners.

Urban Sprouts Child Development Center (USCDC) is a joyful, diverse learning community for children ages 0-5 and for their families. Through child-driven learning, we honor and empower young scholars to develop into socially capable, creative, and inspired citizens. We envision a community where the ideas of children matter, a society where education is a right, and a world where each child’s image is valued.

The majority of Urban Sprouts students are from marginalized groups and socioeconomic circumstances and are enrolled in our school at no-cost. Urban Sprouts also offers wraparound support services to children and families. These include health screenings, special rights and mental/behavioral health support services, food and nutrition, financial literacy, and more.

Additionally, Urban Sprouts houses a Community of Practice that leads systems change and professional development work to bolster the capacity and inspiration of early learning professionals across the region and the country to deliver high quality early education, especially to communities that need it most.

The great work we do has led to a tremendous appetite for growth. As a result, we are in the midst of an exciting capital campaign.

Position Summary

This position is responsible for advancing the financial support of USCDC. As the Development Director, you will be responsible for leading all development activities to raise funding for the organization’s operations and programs. The position develops, implements, and monitors a comprehensive fundraising plan to expand support of the organization – including identifying and strengthening relationships with community stakeholders; actively pursuing and managing corporate and individual leads; and fostering strong donor stewardship.

This position oversees fundraising strategies, policies and procedures, managing the database, creating and monitoring relevant metrics, fundraising events/campaigns, and working closely with the Leadership Team. They also oversee grant writing and provide grant management. The Executive Director and leadership team along with the board will work with this position to create ambitious, but realistic goals.

This position reports directly to the Executive Director while working closely with and supporting the Chief of Strategy and Institutional Advancement. This position also manages the Development Manager and oversees contracted positions (e.g., grant writers) and volunteers as-needed.

This is an in-person salaried position in University City, MO. The typical schedule is 9 AM - 5 PM Monday through Friday, but some evenings and weekends will occasionally be necessary. For instance, events, like our annual gala, are likely to require odd or additional hours. Travel is also occasionally required.

The work culture involves a fun, fast-paced environment and a lean but growing team. We try not to take ourselves too seriously, but we do take our goals seriously. This work can be tough, so we encourage a sense of humor and joy.

Areas of Responsibility

• Develop with key stakeholders the Annual Fund Plan, including strategies and tactics to achieve the fundraising goals of the organization, and ensure plan implementation;

• Lead and coordinate donor cultivation and stewardship efforts at the major, middle, and lower dollar levels;

• Create and monitor key metrics;

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors, Executive Director, and other staff to ensure a culture of philanthropy at all levels;

• Coordinate with volunteers and professional contractor for special events, fundraising campaigns, and projects, including implementation of giving clubs;

• Database Management—enter all gifts and generate acknowledgement letters in an expedient manner. Maintain an accurate database.

• Oversee grants, including relationship management and reporting.

Professional Qualifications

• 4-10+ years of applicable work experience in fund development;

• 2+ years of experience leading teams, managing projects, and/or supervising interns/volunteers;

• 3+ years of grant administration experience preferred;

• Superior communication skills (written and verbal) with exceptional attention to detail;

• Works well both collaboratively and independently; flexible, and able to manage multiple projects at the same time;

• Ability to analyze and systematically compile technical and statistical information;

• Highly Proficient in Google Docs, Sheets, One Cause, Network for Good, and Asana or similar CRM and project management tools and an ability to learn quickly and utilize these and emerging technologies (e.g., AI) to efficiently support you in your role;

• General understanding of how to use social media and mass email distribution programs;

• Experience and respectful demeanor in working with people from diverse cultural, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Additionally, the ideal candidate would possess the following:

• A thorough understanding and passion for the programs, mission, and vision of Urban Sprouts Child Development Center.

• Knowledgeable about the St. Louis philanthropic community and relevant funding areas (e.g. early childhood education, food programs, social and emotional health, wrap around community resources).

• Creative and innovative approaches to fundraising that are right-sized for the organization as it grows.

• CFRE certification (nice to have, not required)

Benefits & Perks

• Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance (we pay 75% at first, then 90% after one year of employment)

• 403B Retirement Plan Available

• Free Breakfast & Lunch, Snacks and Beverages

• Paid Time Off (1 week to begin, 2 weeks after 2 years, 3 weeks after 5 years)

• 2 Paid Mental Health Days per year

• Paid Holidays, Paid Spring Break and Paid Christmas Break

• 50% off childcare tuition for your own child

• Employee appreciation event/travel yearly

Urban Sprouts Child Development Center (USCDC) is a joyful, diverse learning community for children ages 0-5 and for their families. Through child-driven learning, we honor and empower young scholars to develop into socially capable, creative, and inspired citizens. We envision a community where the ideas of children matter, a society where education is a right, and a world where each child’s image is valued.

The majority of Urban Sprouts students are from marginalized groups and socioeconomic circumstances and are enrolled in our school at no-cost. Urban Sprouts also offers wraparound support services to children and families. These include health screenings, special rights and mental/behavioral health support services, food and nutrition, financial literacy, and more.

Additionally, Urban Sprouts houses a Community of Practice that leads systems change and professional development work to bolster the capacity and inspiration of early learning professionals across the region and the country to deliver high quality early education, especially to communities that need it most.

The great work we do has led to a tremendous appetite for growth. As a result, we are in the midst of an exciting capital campaign.

Position Overview

The Development Manager supports Urban Sprouts’ development operations, focusing on backend administrative functions, grants management, and ongoing support for fundraising and departmental initiatives. This role ensures smooth coordination across the Development Department and contributes to meeting fundraising and stewardship goals.

The position reports directly to the Chief of Strategy & Institutional Advancement, with structured weekly check-ins and active participation in development meetings.

Schedule and Availability

• Regular schedule: Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (40 hours per week). *Occasional evening and weekend work is required to support events and operational needs.

• Required meetings:

  • Monday check-ins scheduled with supervisor

  • Weekly Development Meeting: Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.

• This consistent schedule allows mutual accessibility between the Development Manager and the Urban Sprouts team for collaboration and support.

Responsibilities:

Development Administration & Coordination

• Manage backend development tasks, including record keeping, database management, and documentation.

• Maintain donor records and meeting notes in Network for Good (N4G).

• Ensure timely follow-up and documentation after donor interactions (thank-you notes, calls, and updates).

• Prepare weekly Development Meeting agendas and ensure distribution by Tuesday each week.

• Support coordination and scheduling for:

  • Weekly Development Meetings

  • Quarterly Board Meetings

  • Bi-monthly Campaign Committee Meetings

  • Other donor relations and internal development meetings as needed

Grants Management

• Oversee the Grant Calendar (tracking deadlines for proposals and reports). Keep this up-to-date and support the Development Team to meet deadlines.

• Work across teams to create budgets for grants.

• Update and maintain grant schedules within the Development Agenda each week (6–8 weeks ahead).

• Support (as assigned) drafting, submitting, and reporting of grants with input from leadership and development team

• Ensure timely communication and follow-up related to grant deliverables.

• Maintain organized Google Drive for seamless grant tracking, submission and reporting.

Event & Campaign Support

• Assist with donor and sponsor tracking for Gala En Blanc and other events.

• Update notes, moves, and touch points for prospects and donors in shared tracking systems.

• Support on the back end as needed within capacity for fundraising events

Data and Reporting

• Track and reconcile donations (online, checks, pledges, and in-kind) in N4G.

• Compile and submit monthly donation reports to Andrea/Megan (LEM).

• Ensure acknowledgment emails, tax receipts, and other communications are processed promptly and correctly.

Additional Support

• Provide administrative assistance for special development projects, campaigns, or donor communications.

• Prepare board materials (agendas, slides, and documentation) in advance of quarterly meetings.

• Additional items as assigned by E.D., Chief Director Strategy & Advancement, and COO

Work Environment & Accountability

• This is an in person position at Urban Sprouts Campus

• Utilize Asana to record, manage, and update all tasks, assignments, and project progress related to their role.

• Consistent and transparent time and task tracking are essential to support coordination, accountability, and effective team collaboration across the departments.

Compensation & Benefits

• This is a full-time, non-exempt position averaging 40 hours per week.

• Compensation is commensurate to experience and education and ranges from $50,000-$60,000.

• Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance (we pay 75% at first, then 90% after one year of employment)

• 403B Retirement Plan Available

• Free Breakfast & Lunch, Snacks and Beverages

• Paid Time Off (1 week to begin, 2 weeks after 2 years, 3 weeks after 5 years)

• 2 Paid Mental Health Days per year

• Paid Holidays, Paid Spring Break and Paid Christmas Break that accounts for 4 weeks of paid time off.

• 50% off childcare tuition for your own child

• Employee appreciation event/travel yearly

Professional Qualifications

• 2-10+ years of applicable work experience in fund development and/or administrative work;

• 1+ years of grant administration experience preferred;

• Superior communication skills (written and verbal) with exceptional attention to detail;

• Works well both collaboratively and independently; flexible, and able to manage multiple projects at the same time;

• Ability to analyze and systematically compile technical and statistical information;

• Highly Proficient in Google Docs, Sheets, One Cause, Network for Good, and Asana or similar CRM and project management tools and an ability to learn quickly and utilize these and emerging technologies (e.g., AI) to efficiently support you in your role;

• General understanding of how to use social media and mass email distribution programs;

• Experience and respectful demeanor in working with people from diverse cultural, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds.