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If you are interested in being considered for an opening at Bergman Academy, please submit your cover letter and resume at employment@bergmanacademy.org.  We look forward to hearing from you!  

Early Childhood Associate (Ages 3-5)

Division: Early Childhood Division
Reports to: Early Childhood Division Lead & Head of School
Position begins: hiring immediately

 

Experience Learning Beyond the Classroom!
At Bergman Academy, students regularly take learning outdoors—whether exploring nature in science, seeking writing inspiration by the pond, or hiking through the woods in PE. Our beautiful campus, nestled at the heart of Greenwood and Ashworth Parks, provides a hands-on, inquiry-based environment that sparks curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Teachers are empowered to innovate, collaborate, and lead while guiding students to become confident, engaged learners.

About Bergman Academy
Bergman Academy is an independently accredited, state-recognized, secular school serving preschool through 8th grade. Small, intentionally structured classes foster meaningful relationships, personalized instruction, and a culture of courageous communication and lifelong learning. Our Early Childhood program is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, giving our youngest learners the freedom to explore their world with curiosity, confidence, and joy. Throughout the school, faculty embrace inquiry-based learning, creativity, and individualized support. Students of all ages benefit from dedicated instruction in a wide variety of subjects including technology, science, art, music, band, and Spanish—programs that enrich the core curriculum and allow students to explore new talents and passions.

Position Overview
Early childhood associates assist in classes of approximately 18 students, building strong relationships and tailoring instruction to meet individual needs. Associates may participate in division meetings, support departments, and help guide students to high levels of achievement while fostering personal growth.

Our Ideal Teacher
We seek adaptable, knowledgeable educators with a growth mindset and a clear passion for teaching. Our teachers see education as both a career and a calling—shaping students into independent, confident learners while contributing to a collaborative, inspiring school culture.

Early Childhood Education Associates support the Early Childhood faculty through the following:

  • Assist in planning authentic and child-centered learning experiences that align with an established curricular framework

  • Assist in assessing student learning through careful observation, documenting that learning through photographs, videos, anecdotal records, and work samples

  • Assist the classroom teachers in maintaining a safe and intentionally prepared classroom environment

  • Participate in back-to-school nights, open houses, and school events to support the Bergman community throughout the year

  • Assume a primary teaching role in the absence of the teacher or when needed

  • Engage students in small group and large group activities as determined in consultation with teachers. 

  • Support the classroom teacher in fostering positive behavior and maintaining a safe, calm, and respectful social environment using proactive strategies to guide student interactions and resolve conflicts

  • Work collaboratively as part of a dynamic team of early childhood educators

  • Take initiative to seek out tasks

  • Holding the class with a sense of order and rhythm when leading

  • Contribute to and positively impact the overall culture of the school

The ideal candidate should have/be:

  • Flexible, creative, and joyful, with a passion for early childhood

  • Able to accept constructive feedback and respond accordingly

  • Professional presence and mindset

  • Strong classroom management skills

  • Highly motivated team player with a strong work ethic

  • Effective communication and people skills

  • Strong classroom management, communication, and organizational skills

  • Good natured with a sense of humor

  • An appreciation for nature

  • Critical thinker and observer

 

Job Type: Contract, Full-time

 

Benefits:

  • Positive work environment

  • Robust insurance options

  • Tuition assistance available

  • Professional development opportunities

  • Paid time off

 

Schedule:

  • 8:00AM to 4:00PM M-F, will follow Bergman Academy’s academic calendar

  • Occasional evening or weekend events scheduled in relation to school calendar

 

Education:

  • Associate’s degree (minimum)

  • Bachelor’s degree (preferred)

 

Experience:

  • Teaching: 1 year (preferred) OR

  • Early Childhood Support: 1 year (minimum)

 

License/Certification:

  • CPR Certification (required)

  • All trainings as required by DHS and Bergman Academy

  • Child Development Associate Certification (preferred)

Bergman Academy’s Mission Statement
To provide an environment that nurtures total development while guiding students toward the joy of lifelong learning.

Bergman Academy Logo in blue and white. The logo features a large blue circle and an inner white circle. On the outter blue circle are the words "Bergman Academy" in white. On the inside circle, there is a large blue tree with the words "Founded in 1977".

Bergman Academy is an accredited independent school for preschool through grade 8, located in Des Moines, Iowa. Bergman Academy strives to be a diverse and inclusive community united in the pursuit of excellence, independence, global perspective, and a commitment to each other.

Bergman Academy

100 45th Street

Des Moines, IA 50312

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