PreK Lead Teacher

Description

About Early Care & Education
Early Care & Education has been serving families for decades with a trusted tradition of excellence in early learning. Our experienced teachers provide a warm, community-centered early learning experience for children from infancy through pre-kindergarten. Our schools emphasize age-appropriate learning, social-emotional growth, and a safe, nurturing environment where every child can succeed. All Early Care & Education schools are NAC accredited and hold a Texas Rising Star (TRS) 4-star rating, the highest possible rating.

Our Mission: Create a compassionate school family culture that provides a safe learning environment for the children of Early Care & Education.

Our Values: Quality, Integrity, Service, and Community.

Early Care & Education is proud to be part of Lantern Learning Group, a purpose-led network of preschools united by shared values and a commitment to exceptional early childhood education. Being part of this larger family provides our team with added resources, professional growth opportunities, and long-term stability—while allowing each school to maintain the unique culture and identity that makes it special in its community.

Why Work Here
Joining Early Care & Education means becoming part of a team that values stability, collaboration, and professional growth. Many of our educators have been with us for years, creating a culture of support and continuity that sets us apart. We provide the resources, training, and encouragement you need to grow your career in early childhood education while making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.

At Early Care & Education, we are committed to supporting your career, family, and future. Our team members enjoy comprehensive benefits like health insurance, 401(k) match, paid time off, tuition discounts, and wellness programs. A full list of benefits can be found in the “Benefits” section.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead engaging lessons and activities (storytelling, music, arts, discovery play) that promote whole-child development
• Foster a nurturing classroom culture where children feel loved, valued, and supported
• Model positive behavior while guiding routines and expectations
• Adapt instruction to meet the unique needs of each child
• Partner with families to ensure smooth daily transitions and open communication
• Promote healthy habits like hygiene, nutrition, and self-care

Benefits
All hourly employees receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Employer covers 70% of employee medical premium
• FSA/DCA enrollment options
• Voluntary Dental & Vision coverage
• Voluntary Life, Disability, Accident & Critical Illness coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Pet Insurance
• 80 hours of Paid Time Off (PTO) – accruals start day 1
• 13–15 paid holidays annually
• 2 days of paid Bereavement Leave
• Childcare tuition discounts
• Scholarship program
• Lantern Learning Group Paid Family Leave (LLGPFL)
• 401(k) with 6% match, no wait time for vesting once eligible
• CDA Program Assistance

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Meets HHS and DFPS caregiver qualifications (age, background check, medical clearance, annual training)
• Previous teaching or childcare experience (preferred)
• Early Childhood Education coursework or certification (preferred)
• Pediatric First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain) (preferred)
• Valid driver’s license (if transporting children) (preferred)

Physical Requirements

• Active classroom environment: frequent sitting, standing, kneeling, bending
• Ability to lift/move up to 40 lbs as needed
• Maintain clear visual and auditory supervision of children