Lead Preschool Teacher - 2026-2027 School Year Temple Sinai Early Childhood Education Program Summit, NJ Job Details Part-time | Full-time $27 - $33 an hour 2 hours ago Benefits Paid holidays Health insurance Paid time off Employee discount 403(b) Professional development assistance Retirement plan Paid sick time Qualifications Outdoor work experience Employee relationship building Bachelor's degree Classroom experience Teaching experience with young children Classroom Teaching Parent-teacher conferences (communication methods) Full Job Description Join a team that follows the child's curiosity — where every day is shaped by wonder, not worksheets.

WHO WE ARE

We're a play-based Jewish preschool grounded in an emergent curriculum philosophy — we take our cues from the children. Learning unfolds through hands-on exploration, meaningful materials and deep relationships. As our enrollment expands, we're looking for a lead teacher who believes in the power of child-led exploration and hands-on discovery.

THE ROLE

Design and implement a responsive, child-centered learning environment Engage meaningfully with children during open-ended exploration, project work, and outdoor play Observe children closely and document play and learning to inform curriculum planning Identify and maintain intentional learning materials and invitations to explore Lead brief daily team check-ins and weekly curriculum reflection Prepare weekly reflections and twice yearly parent-teacher conference documentation Nurture warm, collaborative, and professional relationships with families and colleagues Maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment at all times

WHAT YOU BRING

Warmth, flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor Comfort with open-ended, unscripted emergent learning Collaborative and reflective mindset Strong observation and listening skills Experience and enthusiasm around working with young children Willingness to learn or refresh understanding of Reform Jewish practices Ability to get down on the floor and fully engage Reliability and consistent attendance

QUALIFICATIONS A

college degree or Child Development Associate (CDA) credential Teaching experience with young children Current (or ability to obtain) CPR/First Aid certification Cleared background checks before hiring Familiarity with play-based or emergent curriculum approaches preferred Physical ability to actively participate in all classroom and outdoor activities

WHAT WE OFFER A

joyful, collaborative educator team that values reflection and professional growth Opportunities to participate in self-selected professional development Regular planning time and curriculum conversation — your voice matters here Mentorship from experienced lead teachers committed to emergent practice A beautiful, materials-rich environment designed with children in mind Competitive compensation Paid sick leave and holidays per school calendar Synagogue membership and tuition discount in the school Access to employer-subsidized health insurance for 25+ hours weekly Access to 403(b) retirement plan

TO APPLY

Include a resume and a brief note about yourself, your experience with young children, and what is exciting to you about a play-based, emergent curriculum.

Job Types:

Full-time, Part-time Pay:

$27.00 - $33.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan

Education:

Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

early childhood: 1 year (Required)

Work Location:

In person