Lead Toddler Teacher
About This Role
Based in Bloomington, this support staff member opening at New Hope for Families pays $40,000/Yr and requires an active Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
About New Hope for Families
At New Hope for Families, we are dedicated to helping families build strong futures through our commitment to keeping families together and supporting children's growth. Our mission revolves around providing safe shelter and high-quality early learning to children in need.
The New Hope Early Learning Center offers a unique educational environment, serving up to 60 children across four classrooms designed to foster learning and development. We utilize a child-centered approach rooted in Developmentally Appropriate Practices (DAP) and an innovative continuity of care model, which enables our teachers to form deep, secure relationships with the children in their care.
We strive for excellence in our work, having earned Level 4 Paths to Quality and national accreditation, while also prioritizing equity in our enrollment practices. We reserve half of our spots in every classroom for families who have experienced homelessness, ensuring that excellent early learning opportunities are accessible to those who need them most.
Our team is essential to achieving our mission, and we are excited to welcome a compassionate, skilled educator to join our community and contribute to our success.
About the Toddler Co-Lead Role
The Toddler Co-Lead Teacher is a crucial member of our collaborative classroom team, working closely with one other lead teacher and two assistant teachers to provide care and education to 10–14 toddlers ages 1–3.
As a Co-Lead, you will:
- Work collaboratively with your team to plan engaging curriculum and structure the classroom
- Create a warm and engaging learning environment that promotes the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children
- Develop strong, trusting relationships with children through our continuity of care model
- Mentor and guide assistant teachers and volunteers to ensure a cohesive and supportive classroom environment
You’ll also play a key role in partnering with families, maintaining open communication through Brightwheel, participating in parent-teacher conferences, and building relationships with families during daily interactions.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking a dedicated educator who:
- Has a deep understanding of Developmentally Appropriate Practices (DAP)
- Embodies a child-centered, whole-child approach to early learning
- Thrives in a collaborative, team-based environment
- Values relationship-based care with children and families
- Is passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families
Schedule & Support
- Center hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Co-Leads share 8-hour shifts, typically starting at 8:00 AM, 8:30 AM, or 9:30 AM
- One hour of paid lunch daily
- At least two hours of paid prep time per week, often more
We prioritize teacher well-being, professional collaboration, and the time you need to excel in your role.
Why Join New Hope?
At New Hope for Families, you’re not just teaching toddlers—you’re helping build stability, confidence, and opportunity for children and families. If you’re seeking a fulfilling career in a supportive, mission-driven environment, we’d love to meet you.
What You'll Do
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure a smooth transition between classes and opening/closing the classroom according to center schedules and procedures
- Collaborate with the Co-Lead Teacher to develop and implement play-based, child-led lesson plans that cater to children’s interests and developmental needs
- Implement lesson plans as a team, working closely with assistant teachers to provide consistent, high-quality care and learning experiences
- Provide effective classroom management, including guiding assistant teachers to meet daily classroom needs and promote a positive learning environment
- Foster a nurturing, inclusive atmosphere using positive, respectful approaches to guide children’s learning and behavior
- Apply Positive Discipline strategies consistently in all aspects of classroom interaction
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom, including tasks such as sweeping, mopping, sanitizing toys and materials, and completing laundry as needed
- Maintain compliance with all required state licensing and professional development trainings
- Participate in staff meetings, professional development sessions, and collaborative planning activities
Requirements
Required Qualifications
- Ability to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening, as required by licensing regulations
- Willingness to obtain and maintain CPR and First Aid certification
- Ability to complete and maintain a physical examination and TB test in compliance with state and licensing requirements
- Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher degree in Early Childhood Education or a related Early Learning field
Nice to Have
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team-oriented educator
- Familiarity with Paths to Quality standards and commitment to maintaining high-quality early learning environments
- Strong understanding of Developmentally Appropriate Practices (DAP) and a whole-child approach to early learning
Benefits
Benefits
About New Hope for Families
New Hope for Families provides shelter and early learning programs that keep families together and lift children into a promising future. Our Early Learning Center has four classrooms, Infants, Ones, Twos and a PreK. We can enroll up to forty-eight children and half of our enrollment is reserved for children who have experienced homelessness. The New Hope ELC is a Paths To Quality Level 3 school, and is pursuing Level 4and national accreditation.
Common Questions
What ECE credentials are required for this position?
This role requires a CDA.
What does this position pay?
This Lead Toddler Teacher role pays $40,000/Yr.
Is this full-time or part-time?
This job is Full Time.
Where is New Hope for Families located?
New Hope for Families is located at 1140 South Morton Street, Bloomington, IN