Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

Main Responsibilities:

The incumbent is primarily accountable for designing and implementing an early care and education program in compliance with New York State Office of Children and Family Services (NYSOCFS) regulations, NYSED guidelines if applicable, and NAEYC’s recommendations for developmentally appropriate practices. Directs the work of caregivers, student interns, and volunteers. Provides exceptional customer service to both internal and external stakeholders.

I. Learning Environment and Teaching Responsibilities

• Create a positive, respectful, nurturing, and responsive environment that fosters strong relationships with children, adhering to NAEYC guidelines.
• Establish a safe, cheerful, and stimulating learning environment that encourages individual and group activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped classroom that reflects the center's curriculum.
• Order necessary supplies and materials for the classroom.
• Develop daily, weekly, and monthly plans to deliver a well-rounded, age-appropriate, and individually tailored curriculum, involving caregivers in the planning process.
• Prepare materials and coordinate children's care and education.
• Assist children with personal care needs, such as diapering, toileting, feeding, and comforting.
• Regularly observe and record children's interests, growth, and development using the center-approved assessment system.
• Refer children for special services when necessary.
• Implement a curriculum that meets program standards.

• Build trust through open and interactive communication.
• Keep parents informed about classroom activities, projects, and special events through various channels.
• Provide opportunities for parent involvement.
• Hold regular conferences with parents.

• Address concerns with parents in a tactful and professional manner.
• Keep the Center Director informed of family changes, concerns, or needs.

• Collaborate with other teachers and support staff.
• Supervise and guide caregivers, student staff, and field workers.

• Keep classroom staff informed of plans and center activities.

• Maintain confidentiality.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and in-service programs.
• Pursue professional growth and development, completing a minimum of 15 hours of ECE training per year.
• Hold current Pediatric First Aid/CPR and MAT certification.
• Update personal ASPIRE Professional Development listing.
• Support the Center and Center Administration.
• Contribute to a positive work climate.
• Project a professional image.

• Be responsible for carrying out instructions, policies, practices, and procedures.
• Comply with New York State regulations and NAEYC guidelines.
• Follow established schedules and routines.
• Evaluate other classroom staff as required.
• Maintain required records, such as attendance forms, skills checklists, and observation records.

requirements.

• Be punctual and maintain a consistent attendance record.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

II. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of NYS child care regulations.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and age-appropriate activities, aligned with NAEYC guidelines.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, colleagues, and parents.
• Ability to maintain group control and individual behavior using constructive methods.
• Ability to use sound judgment and tact.
• Strong teamwork skills.
• Flexibility in scheduling and responding to program needs.

• Creativity and patience.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs. from floor to waist high table, 20-30 times per day.
• Ability to reach a child 20-30 feet away within 30 seconds.
• Ability to crouch, maintain eye contact, and sit on the floor for extended periods.
• A strong sense of responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• CDA, Associates Degree in ECE, or Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.
• 9 college credits in Early Childhood, Child Development, or a related field, with a plan of study leading to one of the above.
• 1-2 years of experience working with young children in a group setting.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven track record of providing exceptional customer service.
• Desire for creativity, resourcefulness, and mature judgment.

HIRING REQUIREMENTS:

• Completed job application form, with at least three professional references.
• Official transcript of college grades.
• Pass a physical exam, NYS Central Registry Clearance, NYS Justice Center SEL clearance, and comprehensive OCFS Background Check.

• What makes us different?

  ✔ $18.50–$21.00 per hour

  ✔ Generous PTO + paid holidays

  ✔ Affordable health benefits

  ✔ 8% retirement match (that’s huge!)

  ✔ Tuition reimbursement

  ✔ Supportive, hands-on leadership (we help in classrooms!)

  ✔ Located on a college campus

  ✔ High teacher retention – people stay here