Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

Capitol Child Development Center (CCDC) | Hartford, CT | Full-Time

Capitol Child Development Center (CCDC) is a nonprofit early childhood education center in Hartford with a history of serving children and families since 1987. We believe every child deserves a safe, nurturing, and engaging place to learn, explore, build relationships, and discover what they’re capable of.

We’re looking for a Lead Teacher who brings curiosity, compassion, creativity, and a commitment to high-quality early education. This is an opportunity to help shape meaningful classroom experiences, build strong partnerships with families, and contribute to a collaborative team that is continually learning and growing.

At CCDC, early childhood education is about more than what happens in the classroom. It’s about building meaningful relationships, partnering with families, and creating a community where children feel safe, valued, and supported as they grow. 

We believe great educators are always learning. At CCDC, Lead Teachers have opportunities to collaborate with colleagues and program leadership, reflect on their practice, access professional learning, and help shape the future of our center. We value educators who bring curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to grow—and who want to be part of a team that is thoughtful about its work and committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.

• Create a welcoming, inclusive classroom where children feel safe, valued, and deeply engaged.
• Plan dynamic, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that build on children’s interests, questions, and discoveries.
• Observe and document children’s development, using what you learn to guide curriculum and support individual needs.
• Lead and collaborate with your classroom team, modeling positive teaching practices and supporting colleagues.
• Build trusting relationships with families through daily communication, shared observations, and partnership in children’s learning.
• Support children’s social-emotional development through responsive relationships, positive guidance, and opportunities to build independence.
• Maintain a healthy, safe, and nurturing classroom that meets NAEYC accreditation standards,Connecticut Office of Early Childhood licensing requirements, and CCDC policies.
• Participate in professional development, reflective practice, and ongoing efforts to strengthen program quality.

• An associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, or a degree in another field with at least 12 foundational early childhood education credits, consistent with applicable Connecticut requirements.
• At least two years of professional experience working with young children.
• A strong understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate teaching practices.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with children, families, and colleagues.
• The ability to lead a classroom team, stay organized, and work collaboratively.
• A commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive teaching and continued professional growth. 
• Required certifications, background checks, and health screening in accordance with state regulations and CCDC policies.

A bachelor’s degree, experience mentoring other educators, proven ability working with diverse communities, and familiarity with Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards or NAEYC quality standards are preferred.

Equal Opportunity and Belonging

Capitol Child Development Center is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for our children, families, and staff. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including people of all races, ethnicities, religions, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, abilities, gender identities, and sexual orientations. We value the diverse experiences and perspectives that educators bring to our community and believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our ability to serve children and families. If you’re passionate about early childhood education and our mission, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet every preferred qualification.

Interested in joining our team? We’d love to hear from you.

This is a full-time, on-site position in Hartford, Connecticut. Employment is contingent upon meeting applicable education, credentialing, background check, and health requirements.

• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Leave
• Sick Leave
• Tuition Assistance
• Professional Development