Lead Teacher

Summary

A Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for young children. They plan and implement curriculum that supports all areas of development, including social‑emotional, language, cognitive, and physical growth. Maintaining a clean, organized, and well‑prepared classroom is a key part of the role, ensuring that materials are accessible and the environment is conducive to learning.

Lead Teachers also provide guidance and support to assistant teachers, modeling best practices and maintaining clear, respectful communication to ensure consistency in classroom management and daily routines. They build strong relationships with families by communicating regularly about children’s progress, sharing observations, and addressing any concerns in a professional and supportive manner. Additionally, Lead Teachers are responsible for observing and assessing children’s development on a quarterly basis, using these assessments to inform individualized instruction and support each child’s unique needs.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment at all times
• Plan, prepare, and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum across all learning domains
• Create engaging, hands‑on learning experiences that support children’s growth and curiosity
• Supervise children closely to ensure safety and well‑being
• Establish and maintain consistent daily routines and classroom structure
• Use positive guidance techniques to support behavior and social‑emotional development

• Provide direction, support, and mentorship to assistant teachers
• Model best practices in classroom management and teaching strategies
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members to ensure consistency
• Delegate tasks effectively and ensure classroom responsibilities are shared
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development

• Build positive, professional relationships with families
• Communicate regularly with parents about their child’s day, progress, and needs
• Address parent questions or concerns in a timely and respectful manner
• Share developmental milestones and provide resources or guidance when needed

• Observe and document children’s development and behavior on an ongoing basis
• Complete formal child assessments quarterly
• Use assessment data to guide lesson planning and individualized instruction
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records for each child

• Prepare and maintain learning centers and materials
• Rotate toys and activities to keep children engaged
• Ensure all supplies are stocked and classroom is visually welcoming
• Follow all licensing regulations and health/safety policies
• Ensure proper sanitation procedures are followed (toys, surfaces, handwashing, etc.)

• Monitor children for signs of illness or developmental concerns
• Follow proper procedures for meals, diapering/toileting, and handwashing
• Respond appropriately to accidents and emergencies
• Maintain awareness of allergies and individual health needs

• Maintain confidentiality of children, families, and staff
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and punctuality
• Stay current with early childhood best practices
• Complete required trainings and certifications

• Assist with arrival and departure routines
• Set up and clean up activities throughout the day
• Support meal and snack times
• Help children with transitions between activities
• Maintain a positive, nurturing, and patient attitude throughout the day

• Education & Credentials
  • High School Diploma or equivalent (required)
  • State‑required Early Childhood Education (ECE) credits (STARS/stackable certificates) or actively working toward completion
  • Child Development Associate (CDA) or higher in Early Childhood Education (preferred)
• State & Licensing Requirements (Washington State / MERIT)
  • Active Washington State MERIT account
  • Completed background check through MERIT / DCYF (required)
  • Enrollment in STARS training and completion of required annual training hours
• H…