Note: To be considered, applications must be complete. This includes a full list of references with current contact information — email addresses when available and direct phone numbers (not main office lines). At least one reference should be a former employer or supervisor. Incomplete applications or unverifiable references may impact consideration for an interview or employment.

This is a 195 day contract position.

Mission and Vision

At Gentry Public Schools, our mission is to "Ensure all students connect, learn, succeed," and our vision is to provide "a world-class education with a small-town feel." We are committed to creating a supportive, high-quality learning environment where every student can thrive academically and personally while maintaining the close-knit community that defines Gentry.

We are seeking a candidate with a strong public servant mindset and a genuine service attitude, committed to prioritizing the well-being of children—if you are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of kids and truly love what you do, this job may be of interest to you. Check out our website at www.gentrypioneers.com and follow us on Facebook to learn more about who we are.

Professionalism

At Gentry Public Schools, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of professionalism at all times, both in the school setting and beyond. This includes maintaining a positive and respectful presence on social media and in our community interactions. Staff members are expected to model this professionalism consistently and set a strong example for students, colleagues, and the community. By doing so, we cultivate an environment of integrity, respect, and accountability that reflects our commitment to excellence and fosters a positive culture both inside and outside the classroom.

Position Overview

Under the general supervision of the School Principal, the Pre-Kindergarten Teacher will facilitate student growth in academic readiness and social-emotional development through the implementation of developmentally appropriate instruction aligned with district curriculum and Arkansas Early Learning Standards. The teacher will document student progress, address individual learning needs, maintain required records, and create a safe, flexible, and optimal learning environment.

This position is supported through state and/or federal DESE early childhood grant funding. Continued employment is contingent upon program funding, compliance with grant requirements, and student enrollment. Teaching in a Pre-K setting differs from K–12 instruction and requires adherence to DESE early childhood regulations. This is a 195 day contract position.

Responsibilities

Develops and administers developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with district curriculum and Arkansas Early Learning Standards.
Promotes a classroom environment that is safe, nurturing, and conducive to preschool learning and development.
Develops lesson plans and instructional materials that support school readiness and whole-child development.
Conducts ongoing assessments and developmental screenings as required by DESE grant guidelines and adjusts instruction to meet individual student needs.
Organizes and maintains accurate records, documentation, and reports required by district, state, and federal early childhood regulations.
Implements effective classroom management strategies appropriate for preschool-aged students.
Encourages family engagement and maintains effective communication with parents and guardians.
Participates in professional development, faculty meetings, and collaborative planning activities.
Supervises students during classroom activities, transitions, outdoor play, and other assigned duties to ensure student safety.
Demonstrates flexibility, professionalism, and a cooperative attitude while supporting a positive school culture.
Performs other duties as assigned by administration consistent with the grant-funded nature of the program.

Additional Essential Skills

All candidates must demonstrate the following skills to align with the mission and expectations of Gentry Public Schools:

Consistently monitor district email to stay informed and respond promptly to important communications.
Submit requested data and information in a timely manner.
Attend all scheduled meetings organized by supervisors and district administrators.
Complete necessary paperwork as directed.
Demonstrate proficiency with workplace technology and adapt as needed.
Prioritize safety by ensuring all doors and windows are securely locked.
Respect the established chain of command in all interactions.
Stay informed about and understand the district's crisis management plan.
Exemplify professional excellence in the school, community, and on social media.
Focus on their designated responsibilities and collaborate effectively while respecting the boundaries of their role.
Serve as a strong advocate for the school district, promoting its values and achievements both internally and in the broader community.
Maintain a positive attitude and actively contribute to a supportive and constructive work environment, avoiding negativity.
Demonstrate reliable attendance to maximum student instruction and enhance learning outcomes.

Physical and Mental Demands

Ability to lift up to 30–50 pounds.
Ability to sit on the floor or child-sized furniture and actively engage with students.
Ability to supervise indoor and outdoor activities and provide assistance in emergency situations.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Valid Arkansas P–4 teaching license or eligibility to obtain licensure in accordance with DESE requirements.
CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Benefits:

Opportunities for professional growth and development within Gentry Public Schools.
Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
A variety of additional benefit plans available for enrollment through payroll deduction.
Teacher retirement benefits.
Includes days off for holidays and scheduled breaks throughout the year.

Certified Staff Salary & Compensation Overview

Gentry Public Schools offers a competitive salary schedule for certified staff. A first-year teacher with a bachelor’s degree earns a base salary of $50,500, a teacher in year 15 earns $54,800, and a teacher in year 30 earns $58,800. These amounts are base salaries and do not include additional stipends for advanced degrees or additional contract days.

Teachers receive the following degree stipends: a bachelor's + 15 graduate hours adds $1,200, a master’s degree adds $4,800, a master’s plus 15 adds $5,400, a master’s plus 30 adds $6,000, an educational specialist adds $7,000, and a doctorate adds $8,000. We also offer longevity stipends to reward commitment to Gentry Public Schools. These begin at $500 after 5 years and increase in 5-year increments up to $1,500 at 25 years of service.

All base salaries listed are for 190-day contracts. For positions that require more than 190 days, the base salary (before stipends) is divided by 190 to determine a daily rate. That rate is then multiplied by the total number of contracted days, and applicable stipends are added afterward. All base salaries listed are for a 190-day contract unless otherwise stated.

In addition to degree stipends, some positions may include extra stipends for roles such as coaching, club sponsorships, or other responsibilities, depending on the assignment.

You can view the complete Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) salary schedules here.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a completed application, resume, and proof of certification.  You can apply using the "Apply for this job" link above. You can also click here to learn more about our amazing school district and community.

Gentry Public Schools values experience and longevity in education; however, we place equal—or even greater—emphasis on professionalism, a positive, solution-oriented mindset, and the ability to foster a healthy, supportive workplace culture. As a service-focused district, we strive to differentiate ourselves by how we make students, families, and colleagues feel, and we seek team members who share that commitment. While experience is important, sustained success comes from attitude, integrity, and a dedication to creating a constructive, welcoming environment both in school and in the broader community, including online and social media interactions.

Job Requirements:
Citizenship, residency or work visa required