Preschool Teacher

Position: Preschool Teacher- All Ages
About Smart Cookies

Smart Cookies preschools serve families with children ages six weeks to five years old in the Charleston area. We are small enough to know every child and family by name, yet big enough to offer dynamic classrooms, enriching programs, and intentional care that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond. With two schools located on Savannah Highway, we help parents choose the right fit for their child's age and developmental stage.

Our mission is to create a warm, joyful environment where children learn, grow, and develop strong foundations for life.

Our core values are: Quality, Integrity, Service, and Community.

Smart Cookies is proud to be part of Lantern Learning Group, a purpose-led network of preschools united by shared values and a commitment to exceptional early childhood education. Being part of this larger family provides our team with added resources, professional growth opportunities, and long-term stability-while allowing each school to maintain the unique culture and identity that makes it special in its community.

Teacher Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, healthy, and nurturing classroom environment
• Implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth
• Document attendance records, food program compliance, developmental milestones, accident reports, and daily communication with parents
• Use positive guidance techniques
• Collaborate respectfully and professionally with other team members to ensure the success of the children and the school family

What We're Looking For

• Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent
• Experience working with young children
• Ability to bend, stoop, and run to keep up with active young children
• Strong communication and interaction skills with children and parents
• Compassion, respect, and patience for young children

All hourly employees receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Employer covers 70% of employee medical premiums
• FSA/DCA enrollment options
• Voluntary Dental & Vision coverage
• Voluntary Life, Disability, Accident & Critical Illness coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Pet Insurance
• 80 hours of Paid Time Off (PTO) - accruals start day 1
• 13-15 paid holidays annually
• 2 days of paid Bereavement Leave
• Childcare tuition discounts
• Scholarship program
• Lantern Learning Group Paid Family Leave (LLGPFL)
• 401(k) with 6% match; no wait time for vesting once eligible
• CDA Program Assistance

Requirements

Required Education and Experience:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Minimum age of 18
• TB test and physical before start date

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Prior teaching or child care experience
• Completion of the South Carolina Early Childhood Credential (ECD 101)
• At least 6 months of experience in a regulated child care facility

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

• Successful completion of an FBI and SLED background check
• Annual completion of 15 hours of training, including:
  • 5 hours in child growth and development
  • 5 hours in curriculum activities for children
  • Remaining hours in health, safety, or other child care-related topics
• Current Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED certifications
• If transporting children, a valid Class C driver's license with a clean Department of Public Safety record, plus 2 hours of transportation training annually