Full-Time Early Childhood Teachers & Support Staff (Multiple Classrooms)

*Full-Time Early Childhood Teachers & Support Staff (Multiple Classrooms)*
*Southern Hills Early Childhood Program – Lexington, KY*
*Schedule:* Monday–Friday | Hours vary by classroom
*Pay:* Starting at *$15.00/hour* (higher pay available based on formal experience and/or education)

Job Overview

Southern Hills Early Childhood Program is seeking dedicated, dependable, and knowledgeable full-time early childhood teachers and support staff to join our team. We currently have openings in multiple age groups. These positions are ideal for individuals who are passionate about child development, value professionalism, and are committed to maintaining high-quality care and education standards.

Our teachers are respected professionals who work collaboratively to provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for young children. We are a structured, high-expectations program and are looking for educators who value professionalism, teamwork, and consistent high-quality care.

Current Full-Time Openings

*Infant (6 weeks - 12 months)*
Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

*Toddler (1-Year-Olds)*
Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

*Early Preschool (2-Year-Olds)*
Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

A Few Key Responsibilities

* Provide attentive, responsive, and developmentally appropriate care for young children.
* Implement pre-written, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities, with the ability to adapt or make accommodations as needed.
* Accurately and consistently document daily activities, meals, and milestones using classroom iPads and Brightwheel.
* Work collaboratively alongside fellow teachers as equals, maintaining a professional and supportive team environment.
* Demonstrate professional judgment by knowing when to appropriately step in, support, or respectfully redirect a co-teacher to ensure best practices and child safety.
* Utilize positive behavior guidance strategies, including calm redirection, modeling appropriate behavior, and supporting emotional regulation.
* Maintain a respectful classroom environment (no yelling, negative language, labeling, or punitive discipline practices).
* Communicate effectively and professionally with families while maintaining confidentiality, boundaries, and program policies.
* Maintain compliance with Kentucky Child Care Regulations and STARS for KIDS NOW requirements.
* Ensure a clean, safe, and engaging classroom environment.
* Demonstrate reliability and consistency in attendance and punctuality.

Qualifications & Requirements

* Must be at least 18 years old.
* High School Diploma or GED required.
* CDA, Associate's, Bachelor's, or Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.
* Previous childcare or early childhood education experience preferred.
* Understanding of developmentally appropriate behavior management and positive guidance techniques.
* Knowledge of Kentucky childcare regulations and STARS requirements strongly preferred.
* Ability to pass an FBI background check, including national registries.
* CPR/First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain.
* Strong communication, organization, and time-management skills.
* Commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, and program policies.

Benefits

* Competitive pay with growth potential
* Health, dental, vision, and life insurance options
* 401(k)
* Paid Time Off (PTO)
* Most major holidays off
* Employee childcare discount
* Supportive leadership and collaborative team environment

*Job Type:* Full-time

*Work Location:* In person

*Commute/Relocation:*
Lexington, KY 40503 (Required)
Must be able to commute or relocate prior to start date.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:
* 401(k)
* Dental insurance
* Employee discount
* Health insurance
* Life insurance
* Paid time off
* Retirement plan
* Vision insurance

Education:
* High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:
* Childcare: 1 year (Required)

Ability to Commute:
* Lexington, KY 40503 (Required)

Work Location: In person