Lead Toddler Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• Employee discounts
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Training & development

One Year Old Lead TeacherThrive Early Learning Center | Clarksville, TN

Help Build a Classroom Where Toddlers Feel Safe, Loved, and Ready to Thrive.

At Thrive Early Learning Center, we believe early childhood educators do more than teach they shape how children see themselves, others, and the world around them.

We are currently seeking a strong, nurturing, and dependable Lead Teacher for our One Year Old Classroom. This is a leadership role for someone who understands toddler development, values emotional connection, and can confidently guide both children and classroom staff with patience, consistency, and professionalism.

This is not a babysitting position.
We are looking for someone who can lead a classroom intentionally, maintain high standards, build trusting relationships with families, and create an environment where children and teammates feel emotionally safe and supported.

What Youll Do

As the Lead Teacher, you will:

• Lead the daily operations of the toddler classroom

• Create a calm, engaging, developmentally appropriate environment

• Build strong relationships with children and families

• Maintain active supervision and DHS compliance at all times

• Guide and support assistant teachers and aides

• Implement play-based learning experiences

• Support children through emotional development, language growth, routines, and social learning

• Maintain classroom structure, organization, and professionalism

• Communicate clearly and respectfully with families and team members

• Help create a positive classroom culture rooted in teamwork and consistency

What Were Looking For

We are searching for someone who:

• Is warm, patient, and emotionally responsive

• Understands toddler behavior and development

• Can confidently lead a classroom team

• Maintains professionalism under stress

• Values structure, consistency, and accountability

• Understands the importance of active supervision and safety

• Is dependable, coachable, and team-oriented

• Wants to grow professionally in early childhood education

Experience in a licensed child care setting is strongly preferred.

CDA, ECE coursework, or related education is a plus.

Thrive Core Values

We Build Belonging

Children, families, and staff should feel welcomed, valued, and connected.

We Lead with Love

We believe in calm guidance, emotional safety, and respectful interactions.

We Protect Childhood

We prioritize play, curiosity, relationships, and developmentally appropriate learning.

We Grow Together

We believe strong teams continue learning, improving, and supporting one another.

Licensing & Professional Expectations

Candidates must be able to:

• Meet Tennessee DHS requirements

• Pass required background checks

• Maintain CPR/First Aid and required trainings

• Follow all health, safety, and supervision standards

• Maintain dependable attendance and professionalism

Physical Requirements

This role requires frequent movement throughout the day including:

• Lifting children

• Sitting on the floor

• Bending, kneeling, and active engagement

• Indoor and outdoor supervision

• Assisting with diapering and daily care routines

This Position May Not Be the Right Fit If

• You struggle with patience or emotional regulation

• You prefer working independently without teamwork

• You become easily overwhelmed by noise or fast-paced environments

• You are inconsistent with supervision or professionalism

• You are looking for a low-engagement or passive classroom role

Why Thrive?

At Thrive, we are building more than classrooms we are building a culture.

We are committed to creating an environment where:

• Teachers feel respected and supported

• Leadership is hands-on and growth-focused

• Children are nurtured emotionally and developmentally

• Families feel connected and confident in our care

We are looking for educators who want to make a meaningful impact while growing alongside a team that truly cares.

Apply today if you believe children deserve calm, connected, high-quality care and you want to be part of helping build it.