Child Care Center Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

The Lead Teacher provides a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while supporting the daily operations of the child care center. This position is responsible for leading an assigned classroom, ensuring compliance with Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) Child Care Licensing Minimum Standards and Texas Rising Star (TRS) requirements, mentoring assistant teachers, communicating with families, and assisting with center operations as needed. The Lead Teacher is expected to work directly with children, maintain appropriate teacher-to-child ratios, and promote high-quality early childhood education.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Classroom Support

• Lead an assigned classroom and provide a positive, engaging learning environment.
• Assist the Director with the daily operation of the child care center as needed.
• Ensure compliance with Texas Child Care Licensing Minimum Standards, CACFP, and Texas Rising Star (TRS) requirements.
• Mentor, support, and provide guidance to assistant teachers and classroom staff.
• Maintain classroom attendance, children's records, and required documentation.
• Assist with incident reports, accident reports, and parent documentation.
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with families.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
• Support classroom coverage and assist in other classrooms as needed.

Classroom Responsibilities

• Maintain required teacher-to-child ratios at all times.
• Provide direct supervision and care for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years.
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans and hands-on learning activities.
• Create a positive classroom environment that encourages learning through creativity and exploration.
• Support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Supervise indoor and outdoor activities.
• Assist with diapering, toileting, handwashing, and other personal care routines.
• Serve meals and snacks in accordance with CACFP guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
• Use positive guidance and age-appropriate behavior management techniques.

Health & Safety

• Ensure all health and safety procedures are followed.
• Monitor the classroom for cleanliness and licensing compliance.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, accidents, and illnesses.
• Maintain current CPR and First Aid certification (or obtain upon hire).
• Report safety concerns immediately to the Director.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field required.
• Previous experience working in a licensed child care center required.
• Previous Lead Teacher experience required.
• Knowledge of Texas Child Care Licensing Minimum Standards.
• Knowledge of Texas Rising Star (TRS) standards preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Must successfully pass all required background checks.
• Must meet all state training requirements.

Pay is based solely on relevant qualifications and verified work experience.

Physical Requirements

• Lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• Frequently bend, kneel, squat, and sit on the floor.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Actively supervise children indoors and outdoors.

Work Schedule

Hours will vary based on the needs of the center. This position requires flexibility and the willingness to assist in assigned classrooms and support daily center operations as needed.

Employment Expectations

The Lead Teacher is a hands-on educator who leads by example and actively participates in all classroom activities. This is not solely a classroom teaching position. The individual is expected to maintain required teacher-to-child ratios, support fellow staff members, mentor assistant teachers, and provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. The Lead Teacher will also assist the Director with daily center operations as needed while demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to providing high-quality care and education.

At Fresh Start Developmental Learning and Fine Arts Center, we believe our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a family-oriented environment where teachers are respected, supported, and encouraged to grow professionally. Our team works together with a shared passion for providing high-quality early childhood education and creating meaningful experiences for every child.

We believe every child is unique and learns differently. That's why we incorporate hands-on learning, creativity, and engaging activities that make learning fun while helping children build skills they will carry with them for years to come.

As a nonprofit child care center, we are committed to maintaining small teacher-to-child ratios, providing a supportive work environment, and offering supplemental employee benefits. We value teamwork, open communication, and a positive workplace where every employee can thrive.

If you're passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families and are looking for a place to grow your career, we encourage you to apply and become part of the Fresh Start family.

Company Description

At Fresh Start Developmental Learning and Fine Arts Center, we believe our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a family-oriented environment where teachers are respected, supported, and encouraged to grow professionally. Our team works together with a shared passion for providing high-quality early childhood education and creating meaningful experiences for every child.\r\n\r\nWe believe every child is unique and learns differently. That's why we incorporate hands-on learning, creativity, and engaging activities that make learning fun while helping children build skills they will carry with them for years to come.\r\n\r\nAs a nonprofit child care center, we are committed to maintaining small teacher-to-child ratios, providing a supportive work environment, and offering supplemental employee benefits. We value teamwork, open communication, and a positive workplace where every employee can thrive.\r\n\r\nIf you're passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families and are looking for a place to grow your career, we encourage you to apply and become part of the Fresh Start family.