Managing employees in a preschool setting requires a clear description of jobs and responsibilities. If an employee claims they are unaware of what their job is and lacks a description, there is no way to manage them. One management technique includes creating an organized and thorough list of tasks assigned to each person. Deciding how to measure and manage an employee relies on how much they adhere to the list of responsibilities.
Preschools have many activities that need adult preparation as well as a lot of cleaning to do in order to maintain a safe environment. Manage the staff's time by compiling and delegating these tasks. Art projects require a collection of materials, paper to be cut and copies made. Toys need daily sterilization. Tables demand multiple cleanings throughout the day and floors often need sweeping more than once. Distributing these tasks across all employees guarantees that their time will be fairly and well used.
Self-evaluations given to teachers and assistants every three to six months help manage appropriate and inappropriate actions. Employees acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses while also offering their opinions on the preschool. This allows the staff to participate in their own management and makes them feel as though they are part of the organization.
Self-evaluating puts the employee in control to identify his or her own behaviors but provides freedom for the manager to address certain issues. The employee fills out a form that addresses specific questions and concerns regarding employment. After it is completed, a meeting to discuss the results forces opens communication between the employee and the manager. They address discrepancies and a signed agreement or plan is set to improve the situation.
The best thing for the children of a preschool is to have a happy and dedicated workers. Rewarding the employees that shine will reinforce the positive actions and might encourage those who fall behind. Educating the teachers or assistants that seem to have some problems will set a standard for the school and truly help to give everyone the opportunity to succeed.
A reward system for the adults at the preschool can be similar to the program used for the children. Good behavior earns days off, special prizes or some other positive reinforcement. People generally enjoy getting recognition for hard work.
On the same note, always address inappropriate behavior. Instead of a reward, the employee that fails to meet the standards of the preschool receives education. Educating staff members sometimes requires re-emphasizing the school's rules. Whatever the problem is, give the worker the opportunity to reform before considering dismissal. If the employee continues to fail, it is because of his own inability or lack of motivation.