General Position Description

The Preschool Lead Teacher creates and administers a Reggio Emilia-inspired and project-based classroom program that is conducive to student learning and which emphasizes mutual respect for all people. The Preschool Lead Teacher is flexible and committed to a continuous process for professional growth. They are a collegial member of the Early Childhood teaching team and of the FFS faculty and staff and emphasize mutual respect for all people.

Major responsibilities include developing and implementing creative and innovative curriculum including learning centers and project-based learning initiatives, working cooperatively with the Early Childhood team, and participating in/directing various Early Childhood activities. These activities include lunch and recess, planning and attending field trips, participating in admissions-related events, writing reports, and other related activities that contribute to the School community. All teachers are members of at least one school committee and engage in at least one other activity/job that benefits the school community, as determined by the Head of School, such as leading a team, organizing all-school events, or overseeing activities.‍

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and implement high-quality and innovative curriculum in a creative, engaging and stimulating classroom program with daily learning centers and interdisciplinary, project-based, collaborative work;
• Promote high expectations, and establish an environment that supports social, emotional, and academic development in students;
• Evaluate the progress of each student through formal and informal assessment;
• Demonstrate a consistantly caring, patient, and nurturing attitude and demeanor with the students;
• Communicate with parents and caregivers about their child’s progress (phone, email, conferences, newsletters). Be available for individual meetings when needed;
• Use positive and productive techniques for improving student behavior;
• Demonstrate ability to be adaptive, reflective, resilient, and  flexible in work situations;
• Integrate the Quaker testimonies of peace, simplicity, integrity, community and stewardship into the curriculum and when interacting with community members;
• Oversee, mentor, and direct assistant teachers;
• Maintain a clean and orderly classroom;
• Other related duties as assigned by the Director

Additional Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required

The successful candidate is a collegial and dedicated teacher who is well versed in their subject area, able to form excellent relationships with young children and has:

• A minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in working with ages 2.5-5 yrs;
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills;
• The interest in and capability to work, plan, and implement project-based learning initiatives;
• The ability to establish cooperative working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and parents;
• Strong organizational and classroom management skills;
• Enthusiasm and passion for the school’s mission, culture and values;
• An understanding and commitment to living the Quaker testimonies of peace, simplicity, integrity, community and stewardship;
• Flexibility and a commitment to a continuous process for professional growth - teaching, use of educational technologies, cultural competency, and inclusivity. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Ability to be adaptive, reflective, resilient, and  flexible in work situations.

Educational Requirements

• AAS in Early Childhood Education; BA/BS/MA in Early Childhood Education preferred
• For PreK - Certification required

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

• Be able to work both standing up and sitting down for the length of the school day
• Be able to walk up and down at least two flights of stairs, supervise children on the playground, and walk between school buildings
• Be able to work in a wide variety of school environments, including the buildings, gardens, playgrounds, other areas of the campus, on field trips, etc. in all seasons and all weather
• Be able to pick up children and objects up to 35 lbs.
• Be able to pass all criminal record checks, background checks, and child abuse clearances

Employment Type

Full time (12 months), exempt employee, with benefits to include: paid parental leave; tuition remission and free after care for eligible children who attend FFS Main Campus; health care; professional development; 5% match on retirement contributions; 10 days PTO. 

The School believes that children benefit most from in-person classes and activities as well as from relationships with faculty and staff who engage with them in all areas of school life. The School encourages its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and reserves the right to require its employees to receive the COVID-19 primary series and booster vaccinations, subject to the limitations of federal and state law, employee eligibility, and the availability of the vaccine.

FFS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or gender. In addition to federal law requirements, FFS complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.‍

Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of three references related to teaching and working with children to hiring@frankfordfriends.org.

DIRECTOR: EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
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General Position Description:

The Director of the Early Childhood Center (ECC Director), is the lead administrator on site at 2537 Frankford Avenue in Fishtown/Kensington. The FFS Early Childhood Center is an extension of Frankford Friends School, with a main campus enrolling 200 preschool through 8th grade students in the Frankford section of Philadelphia. 7:30-8:00 Early Care; 8:00-3:00 School Hours; 3:00-6:00 Extended Day. 

The school serves up to 50 students, aged 2-5. The Teacher/Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Early Childhood Center while fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and educational environment for children. This role involves managing and mentoring staff, implementing a Reggio-inspired and project-based curriculum, ensuring compliance with regulations, managing assigned budgets, and engaging with families and the community.

Reports to: Head of School
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Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Management:
   • Ensure a positive and collaborative work environment.
   • Develop and conduct an onboarding plan for new teaching staff.
   • Onboard, mentor and supervise teaching staff to assure philosophical alignment, enhance teaching practices and promote professional development. 
   • Meet regularly with teaching team members to discuss curriculum, policies, and staff concerns.
   • Manage room assignments and classroom and teacher-to-child ratios;
   • Determine schedules, and assign staff responsibilities and utilization of spaces and resources;
   • Purchase supplies;
   • Manage and monitor finances to stay within approved budget limits;
   • Arrange for substitute help. 
2. Compliance and Safety:
   • Ensure the center meets all local, state, and federal regulations, including DHS regulations. 
   • Maintain accurate records related to licensing, staff qualifications, and child enrollment.
   • Coordinate and oversee any trainings and certifications required by law or policy.
   • Participate in Open Houses, school and city fairs, and related recruitment events.
3. Curriculum Development:
   • Implement age-appropriate curriculum that aligns with school philosophy and educational and regulatory standards.
   • Adapt curriculum based on the needs of children and feedback from parents and staff.
4. Child Development:
   • Monitor children's progress and development through observation and assessment.
   • Create individualized learning plans for children as needed.
   • Foster an inclusive environment that accommodates diverse backgrounds.
5. Family and Community Engagement:
   • Build strong relationships with families through regular communication, meetings, and events.
   • Organize family engagement activities and workshops to support child development and education.
   • Collaborate with community organizations to enhance resources and support for families.
6. Marketing and Enrollment:
   • Conduct tours and family visits.
   • Submit material for FFS publications.
7. Teaching:‍
   • Greet families at arrival and dismissal
   • Cover classes and employee breaks and assist where needed

Other duties as assigned: The essential functions and duties listed above are intended to describe the general components of the position and the level of work performed by the ECC Director. The job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed. The omission of functions or duties does not exclude them from this position if work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this position, as determined by the Head of School.

‍Educational Requirements
‍Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

‍Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Required:

• Strong understanding of child development theories and best practices.
• Familiarity with the principles and practices of Reggio Emilia and Project-based Learning;
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role;
• Knowledge of state licensing regulations;
• High energy and a flexible growth-minded work ethic;
• A friendly and welcoming demeanor and the ability to communicate with students, staff, and current and prospective parents in a friendly, open, positive, and professional manner; 
• A dedication and commitment to the school’s mission and values, and the ability to clearly articulate them;
• Detail-oriented, with outstanding organizational skills;
• An understanding and commitment to the Quaker testimonies of peace, simplicity, integrity, community, and stewardship.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

• This position requires significant flexibility and the capacity to work in a variety of settings: office, classroom, community meeting spaces, outdoors, etc. It may require the ability to sit, stand, walk up and down up to three flights of stairs and through the campus, for the entirety of the school day, in all seasons, and to occasionally carry children or lift up to 35 lbs.  
• The ECC Director attends events and meetings outside of school hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
• The ECC Director will encounter a wide variety of challenges and deadlines. They must be able to work in an environment that can be highly stressful at times and have the ability to be flexible as needed.
• Be able to pass all criminal record checks, background checks, and child abuse clearances.

The School believes that children benefit most from in-person classes and activities as well as from relationships with faculty and staff who engage with them in all areas of school life. The Teacher/Director will keep the school environment healthy, safe, and open on all calendared days, in accordance with applicable policies and laws.

Employment Type:

• Exempt  | Full-time, 12 month 

Hours:

• Full day, generally 7:45-4:00 or 9:45-6:00, depending upon day of the week, though often requiring flexible hours to accommodate family needs and staff schedules.
• Representing the School at weekend and evening events attended by students and families is expected.

Salary and Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications 
• Benefits to include: paid parental leave; tuition remission and free after care for children who attend FFS (Main Campus); health care; professional development; 5% match on retirement contributions; PTO, paid vacation, and opportunities for advancement. 

Application:
‍Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and philosophy on early childhood education to hiring@frankfordfriends.org.

‍FFS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or gender. In addition to federal law requirements, FFS complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment. 

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Frankford Friends School is seeking a van driver to provide safe and professional transportation to and from school for students who have opted into our van service. Drivers will be responsible for a 7am-8am morning route and also a 3pm-4pm afternoon route on all school days, Monday through Friday (times are approximate and affected by local traffic conditions).  

General Position Description:  Frankford Friends School Van Driver, PT 

The Van Driver reports to the Assistant Head of School for Operations. In this critical role, they will provide safe and professional transportation to and from school for students who have opted into our van service. Drivers will be responsible for a 7am-8am morning route and also a 3pm-4pm afternoon route on all school days, Monday through Friday (times are approximate and affected by local traffic conditions).  

Reports to: Assistant Head of School for Operations

Key Responsibilities: 

• Operate a school vehicle (10 passenger van) in a safe, professional manner following all applicable school, local, state and federal regulations for transporting students;
• Communicate well with school-aged children and their caregivers;
• Follow the required work schedule consistently and reliably;
• Maintain standards of van cleanliness and safety.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Required:

• A valid PA driver’s license with all necessary endorsements up to date 
• 21 years of age or older 
• Clean driving record
• All background clearance requirements necessary to work in a school in PA 
• Experience driving children in a school vehicle is preferred

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

• Ability to safely drive a 10 passenger van, with no impairments to inhibit safety

Employment Type:

• Part-Time/hourly wage of $20-26 per hour, depending on experience

• 10 month employee, schedule of work follows the FFS school calendar

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Frankford Friends School is seeking qualified per diem substitute teachers for our Lower and Middle School grades. Substitute teachers work on an as-needed basis and may be called in advance or on the day of to cover classrooms in the absence of regular homeroom, specialist, or advisory teachers. The primary role of a substitute teacher is to continue student learning along the learning plan established by the absent full-time teacher. Prior teaching experience or experience with children is required, and a degree related to education is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate flexibility and comfort in working with a variety of age levels.