Early Childhood Lead Teacher (Full-time)

Job Description

Job Description Benefits:

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Position Summary

The Infant & Toddler Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children from birth to two and a half years old. The Lead Teacher plans and implements developmentally appropriate curriculum, supervises classroom staff, maintains compliance with all licensing and accreditation standards, and builds positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in early childhood education (ECE), Child Development, or a closely related field.

Minimum of 2 years of experience working with infants and toddlers in a licensed early childhood setting.

Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practices (DAP), and positive behavior guidance.

Current CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).

Ability to successfully complete all required background checks and meet state licensing requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Classroom Leadership

Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports children's cognitive, language, social-emotional, physical, and creative development.

Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment.

Ensure the health, safety, and supervision of all children at all times.

Maintain appropriate teacher-child interactions that foster secure relationships and learning.

Supervise, coach, and support assistant teachers and classroom aides.

Child Development

Observe, assess, and document each child's developmental progress.

Develop individualized learning experiences based on children's interests and developmental needs.

Maintain accurate child portfolios, assessments, and required documentation.

Support children in developing independence, self-help skills, and positive social interactions.

Family Engagement

Establish positive relationships with families through open and respectful communication.

Conduct parent conferences as required.

Share children's progress and developmental milestones with families.

Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.

Health and Safety

Follow all health, sanitation, and safety procedures.

Ensure proper diapering, handwashing, feeding, and sleeping practices.

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.

Report accidents, incidents, and concerns according to program policies.

Program Compliance

Maintain compliance with all state licensing regulations and program policies.

Complete required lesson plans, attendance records, developmental assessments, and other documentation on time.

Participate in required trainings and professional development.

Support accreditation and quality improvement initiatives.

Team Collaboration

Work collaboratively with administration and fellow staff members.

Attend staff meetings, professional development, and family events.

Serve as a positive role model through professionalism, reliability, and ethical conduct.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong understanding of infant and toddler development.

Excellent classroom management and organizational skills.

Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff.

Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

Lift and carry children weighing up to 40 pounds.

Sit on the floor, bend, kneel, squat, and stand for extended periods.

Push strollers, move classroom equipment, and participate in indoor and outdoor activities.

Respond quickly in emergency situations.

Work Schedule

Full-time position.

Must maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.

Occasional evening meetings, family events, or professional development may be required.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with curriculum planning and child assessments.

Experience supervising or mentoring classroom staff.

Familiarity with state early learning standards and quality improvement systems.

Bilingual (preferred but not required).

The Infant & Toddler Lead Teacher is expected to uphold the mission and values of the program by providing high-quality early childhood education in a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment that promotes each child's growth and development.