Lead Teacher, Early Education

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

Pillsbury Early Education Center is part of Pillsbury United Communities, whose mission is to co-create enduring change toward a just society by fostering thriving communities, building bold solutions, and supporting equity through health, safety, education, and work. At Pillsbury Early Education Center, we believe early childhood education plays a vital role in building strong communities. We are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment where children and families can thrive.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Lead Preschool Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children. This position oversees daily classroom operations, implements curriculum, supervises assistant teachers, and ensures compliance with Minnesota childcare licensing regulations and center policies. The Lead Teacher supports children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development while building strong relationships with families, staff, and the community. Primary Responsibilities (Essential Functions) Classroom Management & Curriculum Open the classroom and prepare the learning environment each morning for children's arrival. Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum and activities that support school readiness and developmental milestones. Create weekly lesson plans aligned with developmental goals. Maintain a structured daily schedule that includes learning activities, meals, rest periods, outdoor play, and transitions. Create a classroom environment that is safe, organized, clean, and welcoming. Maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios according to Minnesota licensing regulations. Always ensure active supervision of children. Child Development & Assessment Observe and document children's developmental progress. Conduct developmental screenings and assessments as required. Identify developmental concerns and communicate appropriately with families and administration. Support children with diverse developmental and behavioral needs. Staff Leadership Supervise assistant teachers, aides, substitutes, and volunteers. Delegate classroom responsibilities appropriately. Provide guidance and mentorship to classroom staff. Support smooth classroom operations during center hours. Attend staff meetings and professional development training. Family Communication Greet families during drop-off and maintain positive relationships. Communicate regularly with parents regarding child development, behavior, and daily activities. Conduct parent conferences twice per year. Maintain confidentiality of children and families. Health & Safety Follow all health and safety procedures required by Minnesota licensing. Administer medication according to center policy and authorization procedures. Maintain accurate attendance records. Follow emergency procedures for fire drills, severe weather, lockdowns, and evacuations. Perform monthly fire drills (year-round) and tornado drills (April-September). Logging all drills in the drill logbook. Ensure proper sanitation and cleaning procedures are followed. Documentation & Compliance Maintain accurate child records. Complete incident and accident reports as needed. Ensure compliance with Minnesota childcare licensing requirements. Follow CACFP meal guidelines when applicable. Complete required annual training and continuing education hours. Qualifications Required Qualifications Must meet Minnesota Lead Teacher qualifications for licensed childcare centers. Must have two years of experience as Lead Teacher Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or qualifying coursework as defined by Minnesota licensing. Experience working with preschool-aged children. CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain upon hire. Successful completion of required background study. Strong classroom management skills. Excellent communication and organizational skills. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field. Experience in a licensed childcare center. Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices. Experience working with diverse families and communities. Physical Requirements Ability to lift 40 pounds. Ability to sit on the floor, bend, kneel, and stand for extended periods. Ability to actively supervise children indoors and outdoors. Ability to respond quickly during emergencies. Work Environment This position works in a fast-paced preschool classroom serving children and families during center hours of 7:30 AM-5:30 PM. The Lead Teacher is expected to maintain professionalism, reliability, and consistency during their scheduled hours of 7:30 AM-4:30 PM. Core Values & Expectations Employees of Pillsbury Early Education Center are expected to: Support equity and inclusion in all interactions. Foster a welcoming environment for children and families. Maintain professionalism and confidentiality. Work collaboratively with coworkers and leadership. Support the mission of Pillsbury United Communities. A Note to

Potential Candidates:

Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary folks, and BIPOC are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every single one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization, and we are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. That candidate may be one who comes from a background less traditional to our field of work, and that's okay. We would strongly encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of the qualifications described. Affirmative Action/EEO statement As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Pillsbury United Communities is intentional about its responsibility of maintaining an equitable environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We hire, support, and promote talented individuals using a process that is fair and equitable to all that apply. We believe differences such as age, race, culture, ability, and sexual orientation are valuable and an asset to our organization, and employees are protected from reprisal.