Lead Teacher

We are seeking a Lead Teacher who is passionate about early childhood education, committed to creating a positive classroom environment, and ready to support the growth and development of both children and team members. The Role The Lead Teacher is the educational leader within the classroom. This role requires a professional who can create a nurturing, developmentally appropriate environment while guiding classroom staff, supporting families, and ensuring high-quality care and learning experiences. You will be responsible for: Classroom environment and program quality Child development and individualized learning Family communication and engagement Classroom team support and collaboration Compliance with New York State regulations and company policies This position reports to the Center Director and works closely with classroom staff and center leadership. Key Responsibilities Educational Leadership Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and daily activities Create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment Monitor and assess children’s development and adjust programming accordingly Ensure classroom practices align with OCFS regulations and accreditation standards Model positive interactions and engagement with children Classroom Team Support Provide guidance and support to assistant teachers and classroom staff Foster a collaborative and positive team environment Participate in staff meetings and center initiatives Support onboarding and development of new staff within the classroom Child & Family Experience Build strong, supportive relationships with children and families Maintain consistent and effective communication with families regarding development and daily activities Conduct bi-annual parent-teacher conferences and meet with families as needed Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all family interactions Support center tours by sharing classroom-specific insights with prospective families Compliance & Documentation Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including observations, incidents, and daily reports Ensure compliance with OCFS regulations, health and safety standards, and company policies Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment Professional Development Complete required annual training (minimum 30 hours) in accordance with OCFS and accreditation standards Maintain required certifications and pursue ongoing professional growth Stay current with best practices in early childhood education Qualifications Candidates must meet New York State requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center. Typical qualifications include: Child Development Associate (CDA) Minimum of 12 credit hours in Early Childhood Education with a plan to continue education Preferred experience: At least 1 year of experience in an early childhood education setting Experience working in a classroom leadership or lead role Knowledge of New York State childcare regulations Strong communication and teamwork skills Commitment to high-quality early childhood education Required certifications (or willingness to obtain): Foundations in Health and Safety CPR / First Aid Medication Administration Training (MAT) Physical ability to: Lift approximately 30 pounds Supervise children by sight and sound at all times Respond quickly to children’s needs and emergencies Sit, bend, and move at a child’s level throughout the day Who Succeeds in This Role Create warm, engaging, and structured classroom environments Build strong relationships with children, families, and team members Take initiative and demonstrate leadership within the classroom Balance care, education, and compliance responsibilities effectively Thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment Career Growth Opportunities At First Learning, we believe in developing future leaders. Lead Teachers have opportunities to: Advance into Assistant Director or Center Director roles Take on mentorship or training responsibilities Participate in program development and center initiatives Grow within a multi-site, expanding organization Job Type: Full-time Benefits: 401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Health savings account Paid time off Referral program Vision insurance #J-18808-Ljbffr Carealot Childcare