Lead Teacher

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY:

Lead Teachers at Pacific Oaks Children's School play a vital role in fostering a developmentally appropriate and inclusive program for young children. They guide and collaborate with their teaching team to implement an emergent curriculum that supports the growth of the whole child, embracing diverse learning styles and promoting anti-bias education. Key responsibilities include teaching, coordinating home & school communications, building strong parent relationships, and supporting school-wide initiatives.

Lead Teachers also mentor associate teachers and practicum students, demonstrating best practices and cultivating a learning environment centered on collaboration, respect, and continuous improvement. Lead Teachers ensure the effective operation and coordination of their programs. They work closely with fellow Lead Teachers, Master Teachers, and the broader teaching team to meet the developmental needs of all children and uphold the school’s educational values.

Reports directly to the Executive Director of the Children’s School. SUPERVISION RECEIVED:
Lead Teachers operate under general supervision from the Executive Director of the Children’s School. They have the autonomy to make instructional and operational decisions within the framework of school policies and educational standards. While they are expected to manage their classrooms independently, they receive guidance and feedback during regular check-ins and performance evaluations. SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
Lead Teachers, in collaboration with Master Teachers (when present), provide supervision over the teaching team, including Associate Teachers, Assistant Teachers, and practicum students. When a Master Teacher is part of the group, they act as the direct supervisor, with Lead Teachers providing supportive supervision to enhance team leadership and curriculum implementation. If a Master Teacher is not part of the group, the Lead Teacher assumes direct supervision, guiding the teaching team, overseeing classroom activities, and mentoring teachers.

This leadership role includes developing and implementing the curriculum, ensuring classroom management, and fostering a learning environment that aligns with the school’s educational philosophy. # of Supervised Directly # of Supervised Indirectly __0____FTE (Full-time Equivalent) __0____FTE (Full-time Equivalent) 1– 3 FTE (Non-exempt) __0____FTE (Non-exempt): __0____FTE (Exempt) __0____FTE (Exempt): 1 – 3 FTE Total __0____FTE Total ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS*:
Commitment to Progressive Philosophy & Curriculum Development:
Demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to the school’s progressive, experiential learning philosophy. Plan, implement, and adapt developmentally appropriate curricula that are responsive to children's needs, interests, and learning styles, fostering cognitive and social-emotional growth. Environment Setup & Child Safety:
Create and maintain a safe, purposeful learning environment indoors and outdoors, promoting creativity, exploration, and children’s physical and emotional well-being. Prioritize health and safety at all times, ensuring compliance with school policies and procedures. Observations, Documentation & Communication:
Continuously observe and document children’s development, providing in-depth, annual developmental summaries. Collaborate with parents, staff, and the Executive Director to support each child’s growth and maintain regular communication with families through notes, newsletters, and updates on progress and goals. Parent Partnerships & Engagement:
Build respectful, collaborative relationships with parents, honoring cultural differences and diverse family structures. Facilitate individual parent conferences at least twice per year and group meetings three times annually. Actively participate in Parent Orientation and other school events to foster strong school-family partnerships. Staff Supervision & Professional Development:
Supervise, mentor, and support staff in their daily responsibilities, curriculum planning, and classroom management. Lead staff meetings, provide ongoing feedback, conduct performance…