ECEAP Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

The ECEAP Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating a developmentally appropriate, high‑quality early childhood education program for preschool‑aged children enrolled in the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP). This position ensures compliance with ECEAP Performance Standards, licensing requirements, and organizational policies while fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for children and families.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Northeast Youth Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Curriculum & Instruction

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive curriculum aligned with ECEAP Performance Standards
• Conduct ongoing child observations and maintain accurate documentation to inform individualized instruction
• Prepare and facilitate daily classroom activities that promote school readiness across all developmental domains
• Ensure classroom environments are safe, organized, and supportive of active learning

Child Assessment & Documentation

• Administer required developmental screenings and assessments within established timelines
• Maintain up‑to‑date child portfolios, progress notes, and assessment records
• Use assessment data to individualize instruction and support children with diverse learning needs

Family Engagement

• Build positive, respectful relationships with families and serve as a primary point of contact
• Conduct family conferences and home visits as required by ECEAP standards
• Collaborate with families to set goals and support children’s learning and development
• Provide resources and referrals to support family well‑being

Collaboration & Teamwork

• Supervise and mentor classroom staff, including Assistant Teachers and Classroom Aides
• Work collaboratively with Family Support Specialists, Health/Nutrition staff, and other interdisciplinary team members
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and required trainings
• Support program events, parent meetings, and community engagement activities

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to ECEAP Performance Standards, state licensing regulations, and organizational policies
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation for compliance and monitoring
• Implement health, safety, and emergency procedures consistently
• Support inclusive practices and ensure accommodations for children with disabilities or special needs

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education OR related field with equivalent ECE credits as required by ECEAP standards
• Experience working in early childhood education, preferably in a state‑funded preschool or Head Start/ECEAP program
• Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practice, and trauma‑informed care
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment
• Strong communication, organizational, and documentation skills

Upon Hire:

• Background Check
• Tuberculosis (TB) Test
• Show proof of MMR immunization or immunity proof
• Covid Immunization or Exemption
• CPR/First Aid
• Childcare Basics
• Minimum Age: 18

• Washington State Teaching Certificate (P‑3 or related endorsement)
• Experience supervising or mentoring classroom staff
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities
• Training in Creative Curriculum, Teaching Strategies GOLD, or similar early learning systems

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Leave
• Sick Leave