Lead Preschool Teacher

What You'll Do

Duties: General Position Description

The Lead Teacher oversees daily classroom operations in a developmentally appropriate setting, ensuring compliance with state child-to-teacher ratios. This role requires confident classroom management and leadership, as well as collaboration with a co-teacher and Curriculum & Classroom Specialist to maintain program quality.

This is a leadership position within the classroom. The Lead Teacher builds a cohesive team, implements engaging curriculum, and manages daily classroom operations, setting the tone for structure, consistency, and positive guidance.

Success in this role demands strong organization, effective time management, and confident classroom and behavior management skills. The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment, ensuring the well-being and growth of children. Strong communication skills are essential for effective support of children, staff, and families.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities
• Lead daily routines (meals, toileting, rest time, transitions, and care)
• Maintain a safe, clean, and engaging classroom environment
• Model positive guidance and effective communication with children
• Complete child assessments and participate in parent conferences
• Communicate regularly with families through daily interactions and updates
• Lead and support assistant teachers, aides, and volunteers
• Ensure compliance with licensing and Early Achievers standards
• Complete required documentation and maintain accurate records

Key Responsibilities

• Create and implement curriculum aligned with early learning standards
• Lead by example through professionalism, consistency, and teamwork
• Support and coach teaching staff to maintain a strong classroom team
• Plan engaging activities that support social, emotional, and cognitive growth
• Maintain a structured, well-managed classroom environment
• Ensure all health, safety, and hygiene standards are consistently met
• Supervise staff to ensure adherence to classroom expectations and safety protocols
• Maintain organized, accurate records and documentation
• Participate in ongoing professional development and continuous quality improvement

Requirements

• At least 1 full year of experience leading a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom
• 45 college quarter hours in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent)

OR

• At least 2 years of full-time experience in a group childcare setting
• At least 1 year of experience as a Lead Teacher in a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom

OR

• Equivalent education/experience may be considered. Candidates must be willing to sign an education plan agreement to meet Lead Teacher requirements as defined by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).
• Reference: WAC 110-300-0100

This role requires prior experience as a Lead Teacher in a preschool or early learning program within a licensed childcare setting.

Candidates must meet and understand requirements outlined in:

• WAC 110-300-0120 (staff health and professional requirements)
• WAC 110-300-0105 (preservice requirements)

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or Elementary Education
• 3+ years' experience leading a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom
• 5+ years' experience in a group childcare setting

Training Requirements

Upon hire and before working in the classroom:

• DCYF background clearance
• Negative TB test
• Bloodborne Pathogens training
• Mandated Reporter training
• Safe Sleep training

Within 90 days of hire:

• CPR & First Aid Certification
• Child Care Basics Certification

Additional Knowledge, Skills & Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of professional, full-time classroom experience
• Strong understanding of child development
• Effective oral and written communication skills; basic computer proficiency
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, children, and families
• Must obtain and maintain Infant/Child CPR & First Aid certification
• Must pass a full background check
• State-specific requirements available upon request

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move actively throughout the day, including walking, standing, kneeling, bending, squatting, and lifting up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to handle objects and classroom materials
• Ability to communicate clearly and hear across varying noise levels
• Visual ability including close vision, distance vision, color recognition, peripheral vision, and depth perception

Nice to Have

Nice to Haves:

The following qualifications are not mandatory but are desirable for the position:

• Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
• 5+ years of experience leading a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom
• Excellent leadership skills
• Strong relationship-building skills
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Basic knowledge of special needs education and support
• English as a second language (ESL) certification

We encourage applicants who possess a strong desire to develop their skills and experience in early childhood education. If you are passionate about creating a nurturing and engaging environment for young children, please consider applying for this exciting opportunity.

Benefits