Early Childhood Lead Teacher - Seasonal Position

Lead Teacher Job Description
Crystal's Cuddle Bugs Childcare Center

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing developmentally appropriate curriculum and daily classroom operations for children. Cuddle Bugs cares for children ages 6 weeks through 11 years. Age groups served include Infants (6 weeks–15 months), Toddlers (16–32 months), Preschool (33 months–6 years), School-Age children (Kindergarten–11 years). Lead Teachers may be responsible for classrooms that encompass more than one age group, depending on enrollment, staffing, and operational needs.
In addition to fulfilling all regular teacher responsibilities, the Lead Teacher provides leadership and guidance to assistant teachers and aides, ensures compliance with state and center regulations, maintains consistent communication with families, and supports the overall growth and development of each child.
This role includes leadership in classroom management, curriculum development, and team supervision.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead daily classroom operations and supervise children to ensure safety at all times
Develop and implement lesson plans aligned with state and national early learning standards
Adapt curriculum and instruction to meet individual developmental, physical, and social-emotional needs
Plan and lead engaging, age-appropriate, and innovative learning activities
Maintain accurate daily headcounts, attendance, and classroom documentation
Monitor feeding routines, allergy prevention, and overall health needs of children
Administer basic first aid and respond appropriately to medical emergencies
Create and maintain a nurturing, positive learning environment that supports cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and intellectual development
Complete daily reports and developmental updates for families
Conduct parent-teacher conferences at least twice per year, including preparation and follow-up
Address behavior concerns and initiate meetings with families as needed
Maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped classroom environment
Collaborate with the Director and team members to ensure consistency with center goals and procedures
Ensure classroom practices comply with DHS, state regulations, and center policies
Attend all required staff meetings, school functions, and professional development activities
Act as a Mandated Reporter and uphold all ethical and safety responsibilities
Plan and lead classroom celebrations and seasonal events
Perform additional duties as assigned by management

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide leadership, direction, and support to assistant teachers, aides, and classroom staff
Delegate classroom duties including supervision, cleaning, and preparation of materials
Observe, evaluate, and provide feedback to support staff to improve classroom performance
Ensure adequate supplies and learning materials are available and used appropriately
Serve as the primary point of contact with management regarding classroom operations

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience (e.g., CDA, Track 2 Certification)
Must meet all DHS qualifications for a Lead Teacher
Current Adult & Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire)
Up-to-date on all annual DHS-required training (including AHT, SUIDS, Supervision for Safety, OSHA, etc.)
Comfortable using technology for documentation, communication, and lesson planning
Proficient in classroom apps and tools for staff communication, parent messaging, and daily reporting
Must be at least 18 years of age and meet applicable experience and education requirements
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
Demonstrates patience, compassion, and a positive attitude when working with children and staff
Flexible to occasionally work evenings, weekends, or extended hours as needed

COMPETENCIES

Leadership: Inspires and motivates others; models positive behavior
Communication: Communicates clearly and effectively with families, staff, and management
Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves concerns promptly and professionally
Teamwork: Encourages collaboration and maintains a positive work environment
Planning & Organization: Prioritizes tasks and manages time efficiently
Dependability: Reliable, punctual, and committed to center goals
Diversity & Inclusion: Promotes respect and inclusion for all children and families
Ethics: Maintains high standards of professionalism and integrity

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, bend, and lift
Must be able to lift and move up to 40 pounds regularly
Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, illness, and bodily fluids may occur
Moderate to loud noise levels typical of a childcare setting
Must be able to interact with children at floor level and meet their physical needs