Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising developmentally appropriate activities for children in the classroom. This position ensures a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment, provides guidance to classroom staff, and supports positive relationships with families. The Lead Teacher serves as the primary role model for classroom quality and is expected to obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential within 12 months of hire (if not already held).

Exceptional Benefits Package

✅ 100% Employer-Paid Health Insurance
✅ 100% Employer-Paid Dental Insurance
✅ 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance
✅ Low-Cost Vision Insurance Available
✅ 5% Employer Contribution to Your 401(k) After One Year of Service — No Employee Contribution Required
✅ Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
✅ Professional Development Opportunities
✅ Meaningful Work Serving Children and Families

Specific Duties of the Job

1. Classroom Leadership & Curriculum
   1. Plans and implements daily activities that promote the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children.
   2. Ensures lesson plans align with developmentally appropriate practices and agency guidelines.
   3. Maintains a safe and organized classroom environment.
   4. Guides Assistant Teachers and classroom aides in daily responsibilities.
2. Child Development & Assessment
   1. Observes, records, and documents children’s progress.
   2. Supports individualized learning plans for children as needed.
   3. Identifies developmental needs and communicates concerns to the Center Manager and families.
3. Health, Safety, & Nutrition
   1. Follows all DHS Licensing, CACFP, and agency health and safety procedures.
   2. Maintains accurate attendance, meal counts, and required classroom records.
   3. Ensures daily cleaning, sanitizing, and safety checks are completed.
4. Family Engagement
   1. Builds positive relationships with families and communicates regularly about children’s progress.
   2. Participates in family conferences, meetings, and events as assigned.
   3. Provides resources and support to families when appropriate.
5. Professionalism & Training
   1. Obtains a CDA within 12 months of hire (if not already held).
   2. Participates in required training, professional development, and staff meetings.
   3. Maintains confidentiality of child, family, and staff information.
   4. Assists with recruitment and enrollment efforts for the childcare program.
6. Other Duties
   1. Works collaboratively with site staff to maintain smooth operations.
   2. Provides classroom coverage as needed across the center.
   3. Performs other duties as assigned by the Center Manager.

Education and Experience Qualifications

• Required: High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred: CDA, AA, or BA/BS in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Requirement: Must obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential within 12 months of hire (if not already held).
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with young children in a licensed childcare or early education program preferred.