Lead Toddler Teacher - OTR

Job Description

Job Description

| Gold-Rated Step Up to Quality | Full-Time | Cincinnati OH 45214 | Benefits Included

About Water Lily Learning Center

Water Lily Learning Center - OTR is a Gold-rated Step Up to Quality program in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Our toddler classrooms are dynamic, sensory-rich environments where children build language, independence, and social-emotional skills. We implement the Creative Curriculum and align our practice with Ohio's 2024 Early Learning and Development Standards.

Position Summary

The Lead Toddler Teacher - OTR leads the toddler classroom at our OTR campus, guiding children ages 12 to 36 months through one of the most critical periods of early development. You will create structured, engaging environments, implement curriculum, mentor classroom staff, and maintain full Gold-level Step Up to Quality and DCY compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans using the Creative Curriculum, aligned with Ohio's 2024 Early Learning and Development Standards
• Manage a safe, organized toddler classroom with clear transitions, predictable routines, and sensory and language-rich activities
• Conduct ongoing child assessments using DCY-approved tools; document milestones and communicate findings with OTR families
• Build strong family partnerships through daily reports, formal conferences, and consistent responsive communication
• Mentor and lead assistant teachers; model positive guidance and behavior support strategies
• Maintain full compliance with all Ohio DCY licensing and Step Up to Quality Gold standards
• Participate in ongoing professional development aligned with toddler development best practices
• Maintain all required classroom records, assessment portfolios, and DCY compliance documentation

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
• Minimum 3 years working with toddlers in a licensed early childhood setting including lead teaching experience
• Current CPR and First Aid certification required prior to working with children
• Knowledge of toddler development, behavior management, and emotional regulation strategies
• Proficiency with Brightwheel, Teaching Strategies GOLD, or equivalent digital platform
• Strong communication, team leadership, and classroom organization skills
• Must meet all Ohio DCY employment eligibility requirements including applicable clearances

Schedule and Compensation

• Full-time, Monday through Friday
• $15-$18/hr based on experience and credentials
• Health, dental, and retirement benefits included
• Paid professional development and advancement opportunities

Health and Wellness Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability
• Short-Term Disability
• NexGenEAP (Employee Assistance Program)
• Working Advantage (Employee Discount and Reward Program)
• Balance Care
• FinFit Financial Wellness
• Cancer Advocate
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Pay on Demand
• Staff Meetings: Monthly paid meetings
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO):
• Paid Professional Development
• Weekly Pay
• Employee Referral Program
• Plus More

Why Join Water Lily?

• Gold-rated Step Up to Quality — a credentialed, high-quality environment in Over-the-Rhine
• Paid professional development with focus on toddler curriculum and child development
• Collaborative, child-focused team with experienced, supportive leadership
• Structured career pathway from lead teacher to senior or director roles
• Play a vital role nurturing toddlers during one of the most important developmental stages