First Steps 4K Lead Teacher Taylors, SC 29687 $39,000
- $45,500 a year
- Full-time $39,000
- $45,500 a year
- Full-time Summary The First Steps 4K Program is South Carolina's state-funded, high-quality preschool initiative designed to prepare four-year-old children particularly those considered at risk for kindergarten success.
This comprehensive early childhood education program focuses on building strong foundations in early literacy, math, language development, and social-emotional learning through research-based curriculum and intentional teaching practices. The program provides children with a nurturing, structured learning environment where they can grow academically, socially, and emotionally while developing the critical skills needed for long-term school success. First Steps 4K also emphasizes family engagement, recognizing parents and caregivers as essential partners in a child's educational journey. Through small class sizes, qualified educators, ongoing assessments, and individualized support, the program works to close achievement gaps, increase school readiness, and create equitable opportunities for children from diverse backgrounds. First Steps 4K is more than a preschool program it is an investment in the future of children, families, and communities across South Carolina. Duties Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, research-based curriculum aligned with South Carolina Early Learning Standards . Create engaging lesson plans that support early literacy, math, science, social studies, fine arts, and social-emotional development . Establish and maintain a safe, nurturing, and stimulating classroom environment with interactive learning centers, including dramatic play, blocks, literacy, art, science, and mathematics . Conduct ongoing child assessments using the GOLD® by Teaching Strategies assessment system to monitor progress and inform instruction. Differentiate instruction to meet the unique needs of all learners, including children with special needs and diverse learning styles . Foster strong family partnerships through regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, progress updates, and family engagement activities . Document children's developmental growth, learning milestones, and classroom observations accurately and consistently. Collaborate with the First Steps 4K instructional coach to support continuous classroom improvement and instructional excellence. Participate in required professional development, training sessions, and coaching opportunities to strengthen teaching practices. Maintain accurate program documentation, including attendance records, assessments, incident reports, and compliance paperwork . Ensure classroom operations and teaching practices align with First Steps 4K program requirements, licensing regulations, and state guidelines . Promote school readiness by supporting children's academic, social, emotional, and behavioral growth in preparation for kindergarten success. Requirements Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field OR a Bachelor's degree in any field with at least 6 credit hours in Early Childhood Education or Child Development . Must be enrolled in, or willing to enroll in, a teacher education program within four years of employment if certification requirements have not been met. Preferred candidates will have a Bachelor's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education . Teaching certification or progress toward certification is highly preferred. Previous experience working in early childhood education settings is preferred. Current First Aid and CPR certification , or willingness to obtain certification within 90 days of employment . Must successfully pass a background check and meet all requirements for working with young children. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage families, collaborate with team members, and build positive relationships. Demonstrated commitment to professional growth and continuous learning , including completion of required annual professional development hours. Passion for supporting school readiness, child development, and high-quality early childhood education . Nice To Haves Preferred Qualifications
- First Steps 4K Lead Teacher Advanced Education & Certifications Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a closely related field.
Teaching certification or active progress toward certification. Training or certification in Creative Curriculum and GOLD® by Teaching Strategies assessment system. Coursework or professional training in special education, inclusion practices, or early intervention . Professional Experience 2+ years of experience in early childhood education, particularly with children ages birth to five. Previous 4K, Pre-K, Head Start, or state-funded preschool classroom leadership experience . Experience working with at-risk children, diverse populations, or Title I settings . Student teaching, practicum, or direct classroom teaching experience in early childhood settings. Specialized Skills Bilingual communication skills ( English/Spanish preferred, but not required ). Experience with family engagement, parent communication, and community partnerships . Training in behavior management strategies , such as Conscious Discipline, PBIS, or similar approaches. Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices and supporting children with special needs. Strong technology skills, including educational apps, classroom management systems, and digital communication tools. Assessment & Curriculum Expertise Familiarity with ECERS (Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale) and developmental screening tools such as ASQ-3 or DIAL-3 . Experience collecting and analyzing child progress data to guide instructional planning. Knowledge of differentiated instruction, play-based learning, and social-emotional learning curricula (e.g., Second Step, Zones of Regulation). Professional Leadership & Growth Completion of SC Endeavors training hours or similar early childhood professional development. Participation in professional learning communities, conferences, workshops, or advocacy efforts related to early childhood education. Demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to continuous improvement and program excellence . Personal Attributes Strong organizational skills with attention to detail for documentation, compliance, and classroom management. Creativity in lesson planning and creating engaging learning experiences. Cultural competency and experience working with diverse children and families . Flexibility, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit when working with families, coaches, and colleagues. Positive attitude, strong communication skills, and a growth mindset . Technical Competencies Experience using MyTeachingStrategies, ChildPlus, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace , or similar data and classroom management systems. Ability to use technology for family communication, progress monitoring, and classroom documentation . Social media or digital communication experience for family engagement and program promotion. Community Engagement Familiarity with First Steps Partnerships and South Carolina early childhood networks. Established connections within the local early childhood education community are a plus. These preferred qualifications will help candidates transition smoothly into the role, contribute immediately to program quality, and support long-term success for children and families. Benefits What We Offer
- Employee Benefits & Professional Growth Competitive Compensation & Benefits Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Paid Leave Sick Leave Professional Development Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications Comprehensive health insurance benefits Employee retirement plan Paid time off (PTO) and 7 paid holidays Holiday closure compensation for eligible staff, including July 4th and Christmas week closures Performance-based bonuses of up to $500 for excellence in ABC Quality performance Monthly employee appreciation perks and incentives Professional Development & Career Advancement 90 hours of FREE professional development annually Dedicated First Steps 4K instructional coach for ongoing mentoring, classroom support, and professional guidance Training in research-based curricula , including HighScope, Creative Curriculum, or Montessori approaches GOLD® by Teaching Strategies certification and assessment training Leadership development opportunities through the statewide First Steps network Support for obtaining advanced teacher certification and continued education Clear opportunities for career growth and advancement within the organization Classroom Support & Resources $350 annual teaching supplies reimbursement Access to high-quality curriculum resources, classroom learning materials, and instructional supports Technology integration tools to enhance age-appropriate learning experiences Safe, engaging outdoor playground designed to support 4-year-old developmental needs Supportive Work Environment Flexible work hours to promote work-life balance Collaborative, team-oriented culture committed to excellence in early childhood education Supportive leadership that values staff wellness, professional success, and personal growth A mission-driven environment where educators are empowered to make a meaningful difference in children's lives
