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.
Position Overview We are seeking a dedicated, passionate, and energetic Lead Pre-K Teacher to lead our mixed-age classroom of 3- and 4-year-olds. In this role, you will implement developmentally appropriate instruction using the Teaching Strategies (Creative Curriculum) framework, conduct ongoing authentic assessments, and record developmental progress through Teaching Strategies GOLD (TS GOLD). This position offers clear room for professional growth and leadership advancement within our expanding program. Key Responsibilities & Daily Tasks
Curriculum & Assessment:
Plan, prepare, and execute engaging, inquiry-based daily lesson plans aligned with Teaching Strategies / Creative Curriculum. Adapt instruction to meet the diverse developmental needs of a mixed-age group (ages 3-4). Systematically collect observational data, anecdotal notes, and documentation daily. Input assessment data and checkpoint ratings into Teaching Strategies GOLD for seasonal checkpoints and progress report cards.
Classroom Management & Daily Routine:
Maintain a clean, organized, safe, and stimulating classroom environment compliant with state licensing and quality standards. Lead whole-group circle time, small-group targeted learning centers, read-alouds, and sensory/creative activities. Facilitate smooth, positive transitions between classroom activities, outdoor play, meal times, and rest time. Guide social-emotional learning using positive discipline, conflict resolution, and self-regulation techniques.
Care & Supervision:
Provide active, visual, and auditory supervision at all times (indoors and outdoors). Oversee and assist with daily snack and lunch routines, ensuring food safety and cleanliness. Assist children with personal hygiene routines, bathroom support/potty training reinforcement, and proper handwashing. Conduct daily sanitizing and disinfecting of learning materials, high-touch surfaces, and tables.
Family & Professional Collaboration:
Build trusting, communicative partnerships with families via daily verbal check-ins, communication apps, and scheduled parent-teacher conferences. Collaborate with assistant teachers and support staff, delegating daily classroom duties effectively. Participate in occasional staff meetings, professional development workshops, and quality-rating initiatives. Qualifications & Requirements
Education:
Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, or a closely related educational field (Required).
Certifications:
Current CPR & Pediatric First Aid certification (Required or ability to obtain prior to start).
Experience:
Demonstrated experience working as a lead or assistant teacher in a licensed early childhood or preschool setting. Hands-on familiarity with Teaching Strategies / Creative Curriculum and the TS GOLD assessment platform (Highly Preferred). Strong classroom management skills tailored to multi-age early learners. Ability to pass all state-required background checks, medical clearances, and fingerprinting.
