Preschool Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Overview

What You’ll Do

• Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment where every child is treated with dignity, respect, and care.
• Build positive, professional relationships with children and families, including daily greetings and ongoing communication.
• Recognize and respond to diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs , including implementing IEPs and behavioral support plans as required.
• Plan, implement, and document developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Cadence educational philosophy and Signature Programs.
• Use Cadence-required systems and communication tools to communicate professionally with families, coworkers, and leadership.
• Maintain a safe and well‑supervised classroom , following the Cadence Education Safety and Supervision Manual at all times.
• Accurately document and report accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors in accordance with company policy and licensing requirements.
• Follow all Cadence Education policies, procedures, and standards outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development , which may occur outside of regularly scheduled work hours.

What We’re Looking For 

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to follow all safety procedures, including Name‑to‑Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle‑feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
• Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Education

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.

Experience

• Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
• A minimum of 6–12 months of early childhood or classroom experience is preferred, depending on education and credentials.

can review your educational background and experience to help determine your eligibility.

 

Credentials & Licensing

• Must meet all Department of Health Services (DHS) licensing qualifications for Lead Teachers, which may include:
  • High school diploma or GED plus required experience or
  • College coursework in early childhood education or
  • CDA, CCP, EEC or NAC credential
• Ability to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings.
• CDA preferred but not required if state requirements are met.

Qualifications

Candidates selected for a Preschool Lead Teacher position must meet applicable Minnesota Department of Human Services licensing requirements for teacher qualifications.

Qualifications may be established through a combination of education, approved coursework, credentials, and qualifying professional experience, depending on the applicable licensing pathway.

Not sure if you meet the requirements? We encourage you to apply!

Our recruiting team can review your educational background and experience to help determine your eligibility.

Candidates who do not currently meet Lead Teacher qualifications may also be considered for available Teacher Assistant or other classroom positions for which they qualify.

 

Scheduling Requirements (Please Review Carefully)

• Flexibility is essential. Schedules may change based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs.
• Work schedules may vary and are not guaranteed to be eight-hour shifts .
• Daily end times may vary and cannot be guaranteed . #LI-Onsite 

#CRMN

 

 

 

Responsibilities

Join Our Team of Passionate Early Childhood Educators!

 

We are hiring a Preschool Lead Teacher to join our team of dedicated educators! If you're passionate about early childhood development and have experience in childcare, daycare, preschool, or early childhood education, we'd love to meet you.

At Cadence Education, we believe that great educators come from a variety of educational backgrounds and experiences. Whether you're an experienced Teacher, a recent college graduate, or someone looking to grow a career in Early Childhood Education, we encourage you to explore opportunities with us!

Not Sure If You're Teacher Qualified in Minnesota? We Can Help!

Don't let uncertainty about your qualifications stop you from applying!

We understand that Minnesota's Teacher Qualification requirements can sometimes be confusing, and you may already have the education or experience needed without realizing it.

Whether you have a degree in Early Childhood Education, college credits in a related field, a CDA, or experience working with children, we'd love to learn more about your background.

Our recruiting team can help review your college transcripts, educational credentials, and relevant experience to determine which positions you may qualify for.

You're welcome to email us your college transcripts or educational credentials for review at View email address on us.fitly.work -education.com.

Our schools are growing!

We are always looking for passionate educators interested in working with different age groups.

We also have opportunities for:

• Infant Teachers

• Toddler Teachers

• Preschool Teachers

• Teacher Assistants

Interested in becoming a Lead Teacher but not quite qualified yet?

We would still love to hear from you! If you're open to a Teacher Assistant position while gaining additional experience or completing your educational requirements, please let our recruiting team know.

Our goal is to help you find an opportunity that matches your qualifications, interests, and career goals.

Apply today, even if you're unsure about your qualifications! Our recruiting team will be happy to connect with you and explore available opportunities.

Why Join Us?

We're a community of professionals who care deeply about children and their growth. Our schools foster collaboration, open communication, and a supportive work environment.

We prioritize work-life balance and provide the tools and resources you need to succeed.

At Cadence Education, we believe in supporting our educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you're just getting started or have years of classroom experience, we want to help you learn, grow, and make a meaningful difference in children's lives.

About the Preschool Lead Teacher Position

Under the direction of the School Director, the Lead Teacher plays a vital role in creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children.

This position is responsible for planning and delivering curriculum, leading classroom operations, and implementing Cadence Education programs while supporting the physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs of all children, including those with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Lead Teachers are classroom leaders who model professionalism, ensure compliance with licensing and safety requirements, and partner with families and team members to support each child's growth and success.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation

• Hourly Pay Rate $17 - $22

• On-demand pay with UKG Wallet

• 50% childcare tuition discount

• 401(k) with employer match

• Comprehensive benefits package for eligible full-time employees, including:

  • Paid time off that increases with seniority

  • Paid holidays

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance options

  • Additional life, disability, and retirement plans

  • Educational and professional development opportunities

  • Tuition reimbursement

  • Company-paid life insurance

  • Pet insurance

  • Paid CDA

Earn a Sign-On Bonus!

• $750 Sign-On Bonus for candidates with a degree in Early Childhood Education.
• $500 Sign-On Bonus for teacher-qualified candidates with a qualifying degree.

Bonus will be paid after 90 days of successful employment . Offer is valid for this full-time position only .

 

Let's Grow Together!

At Cadence Education, we're always looking for individuals who are passionate about children, education, and making a difference.

Whether you're already Teacher Qualified or looking for a pathway to grow in Early Childhood Education, we'd love to connect with you!

Apply today and let us help you explore your next career opportunity with Cadence Education!