Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

Lead Teachers are the backbone of our early childhood education program, creating engaging and safe learning environments for young children. They develop and implement curriculum that supports cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical growth. Building strong relationships with families and communicating effectively about children’s progress are also key responsibilities. Lead Teachers are also responsible for observing and assessing children’s development, using this information to inform individualized instruction and support each child’s unique needs.

What You'll Do

Lead Teacher Duties & Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped classroom environment that supports children’s learning and development
• Plan, prepare, and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters children’s cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical growth
• Create engaging, hands-on learning experiences that support children’s curiosity and growth
• Supervise children closely to ensure their safety and well-being, and establish and maintain consistent daily routines and classroom structure
• Use positive guidance techniques to support children’s behavior and social-emotional development
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members to ensure consistency and effectiveness in classroom management and daily routines
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development to stay current with best practices and industry developments
• Establish and maintain positive, professional relationships with families, communicating regularly about children’s progress, sharing observations, and addressing any concerns in a timely and respectful manner
• Observe and document children’s development and behavior on an ongoing basis, completing formal child assessments quarterly, and using assessment data to guide lesson planning and individualized instruction
• Prepare and maintain learning centers and materials, rotate toys and activities to keep children engaged, and ensure all supplies are stocked and the classroom is visually welcoming
• Follow all licensing regulations and health/safety policies, and ensure proper sanitation procedures are followed to maintain a clean and healthy environment
• Maintain confidentiality of children, families, and staff, and demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and punctuality in all interactions

Requirements

Lead Teacher Requirements & Qualifications

• State & Licensing Requirements (Washington State / MERIT) Active Washington State MERIT account
• Completed background check through MERIT / DCYF (required)
• Education & Credentials High School Diploma or equivalent (required)
• State-required Early Childhood Education (ECE) credits (STARS/stackable certificates) or actively working toward completion
• Child Development Associate (CDA) or higher in Early Childhood Education (preferred)
• Health & Safety Requirements Current CPR & First Aid Certification (infant/child/adult)
• Bloodborne Pathogens Training (current)
• Negative TB test (Tuberculosis screening)
• Up-to-date immunization records (as required by state licensing)
• Food & Nutrition Current Food Handler’s Card (Washington State Food Worker Card)
• Experience Previous experience working with young children (preferred, typically 1–2+ years for Lead Teacher role)
• Experience in a licensed childcare setting (preferred)
• Skills & Abilities Strong understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practices
• Ability to plan and implement curriculum
• Strong leadership and team collaboration skills
• Effective communication skills with children, families, and staff
• Ability to observe, assess, and document children’s development
• Professional Requirements Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Ability to meet physical demands (lifting, standing, active movement with children)
• Commitment to ongoing professional development
• Additional Preferred Qualifications Training in trauma-informed care
• Knowledge of licensing regulations through Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families
• Experience with classroom management and behavior guidance strategies

Nice To Haves

Preferred / Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• Familiarity with Washington State licensing standards and classroom compliance
• Experience conducting child assessments and developmental screenings
• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or related field
• Proven ability to mentor and support assistant teachers
• Experience with family engagement and building strong parent relationships
• Strong background in curriculum planning and implementation
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities (preferred but not required)
• 5+ years of experience working in an early learning or licensed childcare setting
• Experience in a Lead Teacher or supervisory role
• Training or coursework in social-emotional learning, trauma-informed care, or inclusion practices

Benefits

Benefits

• Health Insurance Options Medical and dental coverage available through payroll services after 90 days of employment
• Option to receive up to $300/month reimbursement toward a medical plan of your choice
• Vision coverage included
• Paid Time Off & Holidays 10 paid holidays annually, including select Jewish holidays
• Winter Break Closure: Paid time off from December 24th through January 1st (occasionally extended through January 2nd depending on the calendar year)
• Professional Development & Education Partnership with Clover Park Technical College
• Opportunity to take free Early Childhood Education (ECE) classes for staff interested in furthering their education and credentials
• Work Environment Supportive, team-oriented workplace
• Opportunities for growth and advancement within the program