Preschool Lead Teacher Atonement Early Learning Center (AELC) Florissant, Missouri Job Overview Atonement Early Learning Center is seeking a dependable, caring, and enthusiastic Preschool Lead Teacher to join our early childhood education team. The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, structured, and engaging classroom environment where young children can learn, grow, and develop socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. We are looking for an educator who genuinely enjoys working with young children, understands developmentally appropriate practices, and is prepared to take leadership of the classroom. The ideal candidate will be reliable, organized, professional, and able to build positive relationships with children, families, and fellow staff members. Key Responsibilities Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support children's social-emotional, cognitive, language, literacy, physical, and creative development. Maintain a safe, welcoming, organized, and engaging classroom environment. Establish and maintain a consistent daily classroom routine. Provide active supervision of children at all times and follow all health and safety procedures. Use positive guidance and age-appropriate behavior management techniques. Encourage children's independence, problem-solving, communication, and positive peer interactions. Observe children's development and document progress, milestones, strengths, and areas where additional support may be needed. Communicate professionally and respectfully with parents and guardians regarding their child's day, development, and classroom experiences. Work collaboratively with classroom assistants, teachers, administration, and other program staff. Maintain accurate attendance, classroom, incident, and other required program records. Maintain classroom cleanliness, organization, and sanitation throughout the day. Follow AELC policies and procedures and all applicable child care requirements. Participate in staff meetings, professional development, training, and ongoing program improvement activities. Complete required documentation accurately and within established timelines. Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff. Demonstrate dependable attendance and punctuality. Qualifications Previous experience working with preschool-age children in a child care center, preschool, early learning program, or similar setting is required. Lead Teacher or classroom leadership experience is preferred. Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate early childhood practices. Ability to plan and facilitate engaging learning activities for young children. Strong classroom management and positive guidance skills. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with children, families, coworkers, and administration. Must be dependable, punctual, organized, and able to work effectively as part of a team. Must be willing to complete all required background screenings, health and safety training, and professional development. CPR and First Aid certification is preferred; candidate must be willing to obtain certification if not currently certified. CDA, Associate Degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field is preferred. What We Are Looking For Our Lead Teacher should be someone who: Shows up consistently and on time Takes ownership of their classroom and responsibilities Creates meaningful and engaging experiences for children Understands that young children learn through play, exploration, relationships, and consistent routines Maintains patience and professionalism during challenging situations Communicates concerns appropriately with administration Works well with other teachers and support staff Welcomes coaching, feedback, and professional development Treats every child and family with dignity and respect Understands the importance of maintaining a safe and nurturing early learning environment Why Join Atonement Early Learning Center? At Atonement Early Learning Center, we believe early childhood educators play an important role in building the foundation for children's future success. Our goal is to provide children with a caring environment where they feel safe, supported, challenged, and excited to learn. We are looking for educators who want to grow with our program and contribute to a positive early learning community. If you are passionate about early childhood education and are ready to lead a preschool classroom with consistency, creativity, and care, we encourage you to apply. Atonement Early Learning Center is an equal opportunity employer.

Pay:

$16.00 - $18.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Work Location:

In person