Preschool Lead Teacher

General Position Description

The Preschool Lead Teacher plays a critical role in guiding children ages 3-5 through a time of rapid development, fostering independence, curiosity, and essential social and academic skills. This role involves creating a structured, engaging learning environment that prepares children for kindergarten while supporting their emotional and physical growth. The Preschool Lead Teacher collaborates with the Assistant Teacher and Center Director to implement a robust curriculum and build strong relationships with children and families.

• Develop and implement a structured, age-appropriate curriculum that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and foundational academic skills such as early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving.

• Plan and facilitate activities that promote collaboration, social-emotional development, and self-regulation in preparation for school readiness.

• Observe, assess, and document each child’s progress, using this information to adapt lesson plans and communicate milestones to families.

• Foster a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment where preschoolers feel safe, valued, and inspired to explore and learn.

• Maintain consistent classroom routines to support children’s sense of security and predictability.

• Supervise and mentor the Assistant Teacher to ensure effective collaboration in meeting classroom goals.

• Communicate regularly with families, offering updates on their child’s progress and sharing strategies to extend learning at home.

• Ensure the classroom remains clean, organized, and safe, complying with all health and safety regulations.

• Encourage positive peer interactions and guide children in resolving conflicts with age-appropriate problem-solving strategies.

• Lead transitions smoothly, helping preschoolers adapt to group activities, mealtimes, and outdoor play.

• Stay current on professional development opportunities and early childhood education best practices.

• Serve as a role model for professionalism, including punctuality, reliability, and a positive attitude.

• Uphold center policies, state regulations, and confidentiality requirements.

• Expertise in early childhood education principles, specifically for preschool-aged children, including school readiness benchmarks.

• Strong communication and organizational skills to effectively engage children, families, and team members.

• Creativity and enthusiasm to design engaging, hands-on activities that meet diverse learning styles.

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or CDA credential preferred.

• Experience teaching preschool-aged children in a licensed childcare setting.

• Certification in pediatric first aid and CPR.

• Pass criminal background check and health assessment (including negative TB test).

• Ability to engage in active play, including bending, lifting up to 50 pounds, and participating in floor-based activities.

• Comfortable working in a busy, dynamic environment with exposure to common childhood illnesses.