Employment Opportunities at Temple Beth-El
Temple Beth-El is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in recognition of our values, commitment to social justice, and responsibility to our spiritual leaders and staff, congregants, and the communities within which we live and work. We strongly encourage applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, veterans, immigrants, and LGBTQIA+ applicants.
Preschool Classroom Teacher
B’Yachad Ithaca Jewish Preschool at Temple Beth-El is a warm, inclusive Jewish preschool that embraces students and families of all backgrounds. Our program integrates Jewish values, traditions, language, and culture into a play-based learning environment, while fostering creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional development. We celebrate diversity and work to create a nurturing atmosphere for all children. We are seeking a compassionate, patient, and enthusiastic Classroom Teacher to join our team. The Classroom Teacher will work closely with the Head Teacher and the Program Director to ensure a safe, engaging, and stimulating classroom environment for children ages 2.5 - 5 years. A basic understanding of Jewish traditions and holidays is preferred, but candidates with openness to learning and supporting our Jewish educational environment are encouraged to apply.
Job Type: Part-Time (Dates: October 28, 2024 - June, 2025)
Schedule: Monday through Thursday from noon - 3:00 PM; Friday from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Compensation: $20.00/hour (plus additional recognition for advanced education and experience)
Key Responsibilities:
- Help to implement a creative, play-based curriculum, including structured activities, free play, outdoor time, and the integration of Jewish values
- Manage classroom routines and transitions, encouraging cooperative play, positive behavior, and conflict resolution skills
- Provide individualized attention and support to students during classroom activities and transitions
- Monitor student behavior, encourage positive social interactions, and manage any challenges in accordance with school policies
- Communicate effectively and professionally with parents, caregivers, and staff regarding daily updates, student progress, and any concerns
- Adhere to all health, safety, and licensing requirements, including hygiene practices and emergency procedures
- Attend team meetings and professional development as needed
Qualifications:
- An Associate degree in Early Childhood, Child Development or related field or
- a Child Development Associate Credential or other Office-recognized credential specific to the preschool developmental period; and one year of experience related to caring for children (preschool only) or
- 9 college credits in Early Childhood, Child Development or a related field, with a plan of study leading to a Child Development Associate Credential, other Office-recognized credential specific to the preschool developmental period, or an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood, Child Development or a related field; and two years of experience related to caring for children)
- Prior experience working with preschool-aged children in a school or child care setting
- Some knowledge of Jewish culture, values, or holidays is preferred
- Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with the teaching team
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Patience, creativity, and a passion for working with children
How to Apply: Interested candidates should email their CV and a brief cover letter to Calle Schueler, Director of Education and Engagement at Temple Beth-El, at calle-schueler@tbeithaca.org.
Religious School Substitute Teachers
Job Overview
Temple Beth-El (TBE) is seeking passionate and flexible substitute teachers to join our education team. Our school serves students from Kindergarten through 7th grade and is committed to providing a warm, inclusive, and engaging Jewish education. Our religious school meets on Sundays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (kindergarten through 7th grade) and on Wednesdays from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (2nd-7th grade.) Teachers are expected to arrive 15 minutes prior to the beginning of the school day to set up their classrooms.
Responsibilities:
- Lead pre-prepared lessons and activities in a supportive and welcoming environment.
- Foster a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere that respects all students' backgrounds and learning needs.
- Supervise students during learning activities and all-school gatherings, ensuring their safety and engagement.
- Communicate effectively with students, staff, and families as needed.
- Follow the classroom management policies and values of the religious school.
Qualifications:
- Experience working with children in an educational or informal education setting.
- Knowledge of Jewish traditions, values, and basic Hebrew (preferred but not required).
- Ability to adapt quickly to different classroom settings and age groups.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to creating an inclusive, respectful, and supportive learning environment.
Statistics show that women, people of color, and many others with marginalized identities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification perfectly. We want to hear from you whether you meet all the above preferences or not!
Working Conditions/Physical Demands
Teachers must be able to travel to Temple Beth-El (402 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850.) Stooping, bending, and reaching for and carrying files or supplies, and sitting or standing for extended periods of time are common.
Compensation
Substitute teachers will be compensated at a flat rate of $75 for a Sunday class session and $50 for a Wednesday class session.
To Apply: Interested candidates should email their CV and a brief cover letter to Calle Schueler, Director of Education and Engagement, at calle-schueler@tbeithaca.org.