School-Age Lead Teacher

About This Role

The School-Age Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising a high-quality before- and after-school program as well as a summer program. This position is in the younger of our two school age classrooms working with children ages 5 years to 12 years depending on enrollment. This role provides a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment that supports students’ social, emotional, and academic growth. The Lead Teacher oversees daily activities, manages classroom routines, communicated with other staff, and maintains positive communication with families and school personnel while ensuring compliance with licensing and program standards.

What You'll Do

• Plan, prepare, and implement engaging, age-appropriate activities, including academic enrichment, recreation, and social development
• Create and maintain a safe, positive, and inclusive classroom environment that supports children’s emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs
• Model best practices in classroom management and child engagement
• Establish and maintain consistent classroom routines and behavior expectations
• Actively supervise children at all times, including indoor, outdoor, and transition periods
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and school staff through open, professional communication
• Monitor attendance, maintain accurate records, and complete required documentation in accordance with licensing and program guidelines
• Ensure compliance with state licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and organizational policies
• Support children with homework and reinforce school-day learning in a developmentally appropriate way
• Address behavior concerns using positive guidance strategies and collaborate with families and administrators as needed
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities
• Assist with program planning, special events, and seasonal activities
• Maintain classroom materials, equipment, and supplies; ensure spaces are clean and organized
  
  

Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have completed high school or its equivalent as determined by the Wisconsin department of public instruction.
• Have at least 240 hours of experience as a group leader, school-age assistant, public or private school teacher, student teacher or practicum, coach, camp counselor, mentor through a community-based organization, or in another approved setting.
• At least Wisconsin Registry Level 3 or higher.
  
  

And at least one of the following:

• Four credits in school-age child growth and development or its equivalent.
  
  

OR

• The first 2 courses of the Registry Afterschool & Youth Development Credential.
  
  

OR

• Two noncredit department-approved courses for school-age program and group leaders. (Introduction to the School-Age Care Profession and Skills and Strategies for the School-Age Teacher or Guiding Behavior of Children in School-Age Programs and SchoolAge Curricular Framework)
  
  

OR

• One noncredit department-approved course (Introduction to the School-Age Care Profession) and 2 credits in education, physical education, community health, child guidance, recreation, psychology, social work, or juvenile justice.
  
  

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience leading a school-age or out-of-school-time program
• Coursework or degree in Education, Child Development, or a related field
• Familiarity with state childcare licensing regulations and quality standards
• Training in behavior management, social-emotional learning (SEL), or trauma-informed care
• Experience supporting homework help or academic enrichment activities
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Strong communication skills with families, school staff, and administrators
• Experience planning themed activities, clubs, or enrichment programs (STEM, arts, sports, etc.)
• Comfort using basic technology for attendance tracking, communication apps, or documentation
• Enthusiasm for creating a fun, engaging, and inclusive program culture
  
  

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• 401k
• Short Term Disability
• Vacation Time
• Paid Holidays & Paid Birthday
• Paid Continuing Education & Access to College Scholarships
• Sign on Bonus
• 50% Tuition Discount