Summary Responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating developmentally appropriate practices for children. This role ensures children's physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development while ensuring school readiness and fostering a nurturing learning environment. In the Lead Teacher role, this position includes leadership in curriculum implementation, staff mentoring, and team coordination to support classroom success. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Classroom Environment & Safety Supervision & Health Ensure children's safety through constant supervision Maintain compliance and implement health, hygiene, and safety guidelines (OEC & NAEYC) Monitor and respond to children's physical and emotional well-being Physical Space & Atmosphere Create and maintain a welcoming, safe, and developmentally appropriate classroom atmosphere Design and implement engaging indoor and outdoor learning environments and classroom centers that support whole-child development Organize and maintain classroom materials Arrange physical space to support learning Develop a positive classroom environment through supportive interactions Manage transitions smoothly in alignment with the daily schedule Educational Programming and Child Development Curriculum & Planning Develop and implement age-appropriate curriculum and lesson plans that meet individual needs Plan individual and group activities that stimulate growth across all developmental areas Integrate emerging educational trends and research-based practices into curriculum Oversee curriculum implementation across the classroom team and ensure alignment with program goals and state standards Support assistant and floater teachers in adapting and delivering curriculum Child Interaction & Development Participate actively in children's play to extend learning opportunities Use positive guidance techniques to support emotional regulation and social skills Foster early literacy, language development, and independence Support cultural awareness and inclusive practices Help manage classroom routines and transitions effectively Assessment & Documentation Conduct developmental screenings and assessments across all developmental domains Document children's progress through observations, assessments, and anecdotal records Maintain individual child portfolios Data Use & Reporting Analyze assessment data for curriculum planning Generate regular progress reports Use individual and classroom assessment data to inform teaching practices and instructional strategies Collaborate with leadership to support program-wide data-driven decision making Family Engagement Communication & Relationships Maintain open, friendly, and cooperative relationships with families Respond to family concerns promptly and professionally Share children's progress daily through established methods Build collaborative partnerships with families Involvement & Education Conduct regular parent conferences and provide ongoing progress reports Create and distribute classroom newsletters and daily/weekly updates Encourage and facilitate parent involvement in the program Educate parents about child development and age-appropriate practices Respect and support family diversity, while demonstrating cultural sensitivity and responsiveness in all family interactions Professional Responsibilities Teamwork & Communication Participate in team-teaching approach and collaborate with colleagues Attend staff meetings Communicate clearly and professionally in all interactions Maintain positive and professional relationships with colleagues Serve as the primary point of contact between classroom team and center administration Communicate classroom needs, challenges, and successes to supervisors in a timely manner Report concerns about children or classroom to appropriate supervisors Professional Conduct Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality with families Follow mandated reporting procedures for suspected abuse/neglect Arrive punctually and maintain consistent attendance Follow all center policies, state regulations, and NAEYC standards Maintain professional appearance and conduct Represent program professionally Growth & Adaptability Demonstrate flexibility and positive response to change Manage multiple demands and priorities effectively Demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills Contribute to overall program improvement Work effectively with consultants and other professionals Serve as a mentor/role model for other staff members Maintain emotional composure in a fast-paced environment Leadership Responsibilities Team Leadership Lead and mentor classroom team through modeling and coaching Demonstrate initiative and problem-solving skills Create a cooperative and collaborative work environment Delegate responsibilities appropriately Support classroom volunteers Provide ongoing support, guidance, and informal supervision to assistant and floater teachers Model best practices and offer constructive feedback to promote team growth Participate in onboarding and mentoring of new classroom staff Develop and maintain consistent classroom routines and behavior management systems Innovation & Professional Development Ongoing Learning & Application Pursue ongoing professional development and continuing education opportunities Stay current with early childhood education trends and research Share learning from training with colleagues Apply new knowledge and skills in the classroom Complete required continuing education hours Compliance Responsibilities Regulations & Standards Follow all center policies, licensing regulations, and NAEYC standards Maintain current knowledge of NAEYC standards and the Code of Ethical Conduct Maintain current certifications (CPR, First Aid, Medication, etc.) Support program compliance and accreditation efforts Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards Documentation & Procedures Maintain comprehensive record-keeping systems Complete required documentation within established timeframes Manage classroom resources and supplies effectively Track and report incidents according to protocol Maintain required adult-child ratios Follow proper health and safety procedures Implement required curriculum and assessment tools Follow proper record-keeping procedures Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in child development, Early Childhood Education, or related field Minimum one year experience in early childhood setting Must meet QSM qualifications in CT Charts a Course registry or obtain ECTC credential Current First Aid, CPR, Medication, and Epi-pen certifications (or willing to obtain) Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Demonstrated knowledge of child development and early childhood best practices Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise good judgment Proficiency in observation, assessment, and documentation Strong classroom management and organization skills Proficient written and verbal English communication skills Strong organizational and time management abilities Basic computer literacy and documentation skills Time management and organizational skills Physical Requirements Able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds Capable of standing, walking, bending, and reaching frequently Ability to move quickly in response to children's needs Vision and hearing sufficient to supervise children Ability to work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations Physical ability to engage actively with young children Other Requirements Completion of criminal background check and DCF clearance Statement of good health from physician Ability to work flexible hours as needed This position operates in an early childhood setting with moderate noise levels. Regular exposure to outside weather conditions, childhood illnesses, and bodily fluids. Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Ensure frequent contact with children, families, and staff. This job description is not designed to cover all job requirements and responsibilities; duties may change or be added based on program needs.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$21.50 - $23.50 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person