Head Teacher (Lead PreK Teacher 23+ Years Experience Required)

Head Teacher (PreK 3 & PreK 4) - Jersey City three little birds is seeking an experienced, confident Head Teacher to lead one of our PreK classrooms in our Reggio-inspired, play-based early childhood program. We are located in a beautiful, newly designed space in the Bergen-Lafayette neighborhood of Jersey City, just blocks from Liberty State Park. As our school continues to grow, we are building a team of educators who are not only nurturing and creative, but strong classroom leaders who take pride in their work. This is not a traditional daycare role. We are a professional early childhood program with high standards for our classrooms, team, and overall experience for children and families. About the Role Head Teachers at three little birds lead their classrooms with confidence, maintain strong systems and routines, and create a consistent, high-quality experience for children and families. This role is ideal for an educator who has experience independently leading a classroom, is confident managing a team, and is excited to grow within a collaborative, high-standard environment. What You'll Do Lead and manage all aspects of your classroom, including daily flow, transitions, and overall organization Design and implement engaging, play-based curriculum and monthly pedagogical plans Create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences through workshops, provocations, and project-based work Guide and support assistant teachers, setting clear expectations and maintaining a positive, professional team dynamic Maintain a clean, organized, and thoughtfully prepared classroom environment Lead circle time, small group work, and project-based learning experiences Ensure all licensing, health, and safety standards are consistently met Collaborate with leadership to maintain consistency and quality across classrooms Participate in ongoing reflection, feedback, and professional growth Child Development, Observation & Family Partnership Observe and document children's learning through daily interactions, using these insights to design responsive, meaningful curriculum experiences rooted in children's interests Maintain ongoing, reflective assessment of each child's social, emotional, and academic development Support the development of the whole child—nurturing independence, confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning Lead parent-teacher conferences with clarity and care, sharing thoughtful, meaningful insights into each child's growth Build strong, trusting relationships with families through consistent communication, fostering a true partnership between home and school Who This Role Is For This role is for educators who: Take pride in leading a classroom and setting a high standard Are confident managing a team and guiding assistant teachers Thrive in structured, well-run environments Are open to feedback and committed to continuous growth Want to be part of a collaborative, high-quality program Who This Role Is Not For This role is not the right fit for candidates who: Are looking for an assistant or flexible support role only Prefer to follow direction rather than lead a classroom Are not comfortable with feedback, structure, or accountability Qualifications 2-3+ years of experience leading a classroom independently in a licensed childcare center Experience with PreK 3 or PreK 4 strongly preferred CDA, Associate's, or Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education (or related field) Strong classroom management, organization, and communication skills Compensation $55,000 - $60,000 annually , based on experience Opportunities for growth within a rapidly expanding program Our Philosophy At three little birds, children learn, play, and grow through a play-based curriculum filled with creative exploration, movement, art, and meaningful experiences—where children thrive and explore with joy. Our classrooms are rooted in a Reggio-inspired approach, where children are seen as capable, curious learners and teachers act as thoughtful guides. We are building a team of educators who care deeply about their work, their classrooms, and the impact they have on children and families. Apply if you are ready to: ✔ Lead a classroom with confidence and intention ✔ Be part of a structured, high-standard environment ✔ Grow as an educator within a supportive, collaborative team

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$55,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Education:

Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

head teacher : 2 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person