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.
$14.00-$18.00 per hour (based on experience & qualifications)
Job Type:
Full-time, In-person Schedule:
Monday-Friday, within operational hours of 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
ABOUT US
Future Kids Academy is a premier early childhood education center dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where children can thrive. Our team is passionate about preparing young learners for kindergarten and building the academic, social-emotional, and developmental skills they need for future success. We are seeking a caring, energetic, dependable, and qualified VPK Lead Teacher to join our team in Lake Worth, FL.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The VPK Lead Teacher will be responsible for creating and maintaining a nurturing, structured, and developmentally appropriate classroom for 4- and 5-year-old children. The ideal candidate understands Florida's VPK standards, enjoys leading a classroom, and is passionate about preparing children for kindergarten.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and implement engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with Florida VPK standards. Provide hands-on learning experiences focused on early literacy, language development, mathematics, STEM, science, creative arts, and social-emotional development. Lead daily circle time, small-group activities, learning centers, interactive play, and classroom routines. Differentiate activities to meet individual children's developmental and learning needs. Promote kindergarten readiness through age-appropriate academic and social skills. Classroom Management & Safety Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and welcoming classroom environment. Provide active supervision and maintain visual awareness of children at all times. Establish consistent classroom routines, expectations, and positive behavior-management strategies. Teach children independence, cooperation, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and respectful peer interactions. Maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios and follow all health and safety procedures. Assessment & Child Development Observe and document children's developmental progress and learning outcomes. Complete required VPK assessments and maintain accurate classroom documentation. Use assessment information to plan individualized and small-group learning experiences. Identify developmental concerns and communicate appropriately with administration and families. Prepare children for a successful transition to kindergarten. Parent & Team Communication Build positive, professional relationships with families. Communicate daily updates regarding children's activities, behavior, meals, progress, and classroom experiences. Participate in parent-teacher conferences and other family engagement activities. Work collaboratively with fellow teachers, administrators, and support staff. Maintain professionalism, reliability, and a positive team attitude. Compliance Follow all Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) licensing requirements. Follow Florida VPK program guidelines, curriculum requirements, assessment procedures, and staff-to-child ratios. Maintain required classroom records and documentation. Follow all center policies and procedures related to health, safety, sanitation, supervision, and child protection.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent required . At least 1 year of teaching or childcare experience preferred . Experience working with preschool-aged children strongly preferred. CDA or college coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred. VPK Credentials VPK Teacher Credentials and/or applicable Florida VPK credentials preferred . Knowledge of Florida VPK Standards and kindergarten-readiness expectations. Familiarity with emergent literacy, early mathematics, STEM, and developmentally appropriate practices. Licenses & Certifications 45-Hour DCF Certification preferred/required based on center requirements . Active CPR/First Aid Certification or willingness to obtain immediately. Additional VPK credentials or training strongly preferred. Skills & Requirements Fluent in English required . Strong classroom leadership and organizational skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to manage multiple classroom responsibilities while maintaining a calm, positive environment. Genuine passion for working with young children. Dependable, patient, energetic, and professional.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, kneel, sit on the floor, and interact with children at their eye level for extended periods. Ability to lift and carry children or classroom materials weighing approximately 30-40 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally. Ability to work comfortably in a busy, active, and high-energy early childhood environment.
BENEFITS 401
(k) Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Employee Discount Regular performance evaluations Opportunities for professional development and career growth Supportive, team-oriented work environment
JOIN OUR TEAM!
If you are passionate about early childhood education and excited about helping children develop the skills they need for kindergarten and beyond, Future Kids Academy would love to hear from you! Apply today and become part of a team dedicated to helping young learners thrive.
Pay:
$14.00 - $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Life insurance Vision insurance
Education:
High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
Teaching:
1 year (Preferred)
Childcare:
1 year (Preferred)
Language:
English (Required)
License/Certification:
Child Development Associate Certification (Preferred) 45-Hours DCF Certification (Required)
