Lead Teacher

What You'll Do

I. Learning Environment and Teaching Responsibilities

• Create a positive, respectful, nurturing, and responsive environment that fosters strong relationships with children, adhering to NAEYC guidelines.
• Establish a safe, cheerful, and stimulating learning environment that encourages individual and group activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped classroom that reflects the center's curriculum.
• Order necessary supplies and materials for the classroom.
• Develop daily, weekly, and monthly plans to deliver a well-rounded, age-appropriate, and individually tailored curriculum, involving caregivers in the planning process.
• Prepare materials and coordinate children's care and education.
• Assist children with personal care needs, such as diapering, toileting, feeding, and comforting.
• Regularly observe and record children's interests, growth, and development using the center-approved assessment system.
• Refer children for special services when necessary.
• Implement a curriculum that meets program standards.

II. Parent Relationships

• Build trust through open and interactive communication.
• Keep parents informed about classroom activities, projects, and special events through various channels.
• Provide opportunities for parent involvement.
• Hold regular conferences with parents.

• Address concerns with parents in a tactful and professional manner.
• Keep the Center Director informed of family changes, concerns, or needs.

III. Staff Communication

• Collaborate with other teachers and support staff.
• Supervise and guide caregivers, student staff, and field workers.

· Maintain open communication with the Director, administrative staff, and consultants.

• Keep classroom staff informed of plans and center activities.

IV. Professionalism

• Maintain confidentiality.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and in-service programs.
• Pursue professional growth and development, completing a minimum of 15 hours of ECE training per year.
• Hold current Pediatric First Aid/CPR and MAT certification.
• Update personal ASPIRE Professional Development listing.
• Support the Center and Center Administration.
• Contribute to a positive work climate.
• Project a professional image.

V. General

• Be responsible for carrying out instructions, policies, practices, and procedures.
• Comply with New York State regulations and NAEYC guidelines.
• Follow established schedules and routines.
• Evaluate other classroom staff as required.
• Maintain required records, such as attendance forms, skills checklists, and observation records.

requirements.

• Be punctual and maintain a consistent attendance record.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

II. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of NYS child care regulations.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and age-appropriate activities, aligned with NAEYC guidelines.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, colleagues, and parents.
• Ability to maintain group control and individual behavior using constructive methods.
• Ability to use sound judgment and tact.
• Strong teamwork skills.
• Flexibility in scheduling and responding to program needs.

• Creativity and patience.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs. from floor to waist high table, 20-30 times per day.
• Ability to reach a child 20-30 feet away within 30 seconds.
• Ability to crouch, maintain eye contact, and sit on the floor for extended periods.
• A strong sense of responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• CDA, Associates Degree in ECE, or Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.
• 9 college credits in Early Childhood, Child Development, or a related field, with a plan of study leading to one of the above.
• 1-2 years of experience working with young children in a group setting.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven track record of providing exceptional customer service.
• Desire for creativity, resourcefulness, and mature judgment.

HIRING REQUIREMENTS:

• Completed job application form, with at least three professional references.
• Official transcript of college grades.
• Pass a physical exam, NYS Central Registry Clearance, NYS Justice Center SEL clearance, and comprehensive OCFS Background Check.

Benefits