A Preschool or Childcare Teacher works with young children, usually ages 3 - 5, to help them learn the social, motor and language skills needed to be ready for kindergarten and elementary school. Organizes activities and uses play or games to help children learn; develops schedules and routines for children that include exercise and rest. Works in a school or in a childcare center or program.
Preschool Director Position Summary The Lead VPK Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that prepares children for kindergarten. The teacher plans and implements high-quality instruction aligned with the Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards and VPK Education Standards while fostering children's academic, social-emotional, physical, and language development. The Lead VPK Teacher serves as the primary educator for the classroom, providing leadership to assistant teachers, maintaining compliance with all DCF and licensing requirements, and partnering with families to support each child's success. Essential ResponsibilitiesInstruction & Curriculum Plan and implement daily lesson plans aligned with Florida VPK standards. Provide engaging, hands-on learning experiences across all developmental domains. Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of individual learners. Promote language, literacy, early math, science, social studies, art, music, and fine motor development. Integrate play-based and child-led learning opportunities throughout the day. Foster independence, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Conduct ongoing observations and assessments to monitor student progress. Prepare children for a successful transition into kindergarten. Classroom Management Maintain a safe, nurturing, and organized classroom environment. Establish consistent classroom routines and behavioral expectations. Use positive behavior supports and developmentally appropriate guidance strategies. Maintain classroom materials and learning centers in an attractive and organized manner. Ensure all classroom displays remain current and purposeful. Promote independence by encouraging children to care for classroom materials and participate in cleanup routines. Child Supervision & Safety Maintain active supervision of children at all times. Ensure compliance with DCF licensing requirements and safety regulations. Conduct regular headcounts and transition counts. Follow all emergency procedures and school safety protocols. Monitor children's health and promptly report concerns to administration. Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families. Documentation & Compliance Complete daily attendance and required classroom documentation. Maintain accurate assessment records and developmental observations. Ensure all VPK documentation is completed accurately and on time. Maintain student portfolios and required records. Complete incident reports and other required documentation promptly. Remain current on all required certifications and professional development. Family Communication Build positive relationships with families. Communicate regularly regarding children's progress, achievements, and concerns. Participate in conferences, family events, and school activities. Respond to parent communication professionally and promptly. Team Collaboration Supervise and mentor assistant teachers assigned to the classroom. Delegate classroom responsibilities appropriately. Collaborate with administration and support staff. Participate in staff meetings and professional development. Maintain a positive, solution-focused attitude and contribute to a collaborative team environment. Classroom Environment Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized classroom throughout the day. Ensure toys and materials are sanitized according to school procedures. Prepare materials before instructional activities. Maintain inventory of classroom supplies and communicate needs to administration. Daily Responsibilities Welcome children and families each morning. Conduct circle time, small groups, and learning centers. Supervise meals, outdoor play, rest periods (if applicable), and transitions. Assist children with self-help skills, including toileting, handwashing, and independence. Complete end-of-day classroom organization and cleaning responsibilities. Qualifications Florida VPK Lead Teacher Credential or equivalent as required by the Florida Department of Education. CDA, FCCPC, Associate's, or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field (preferred). Current DCF required training. CPR and First Aid Certification. Level II Background Screening. Strong classroom management skills. Excellent communication and organizational skills. Ability to work collaboratively with families and team members. Physical Requirements Lift up to 40 pounds. Sit on the floor, bend, kneel, squat, and stand for extended periods. Move quickly to ensure children's safety. Work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Core Expectations Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and punctuality. Model kindness, patience, and respect. Maintain confidentiality. Follow all BITS Prep policies and procedures. Represent BITS Prep positively within the community. Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to assist where needed to support school operations.
