Child Care Lead Teacher

Join the Advantage Early Learning Academy Family!

Advantage Early Learning Academy is growing, and we're looking for passionate Lead Teachers to join our team!

If you are dedicated to early childhood education, enjoy inspiring young learners, and want to make a meaningful difference every day, we'd love to meet you. At Advantage ELA, we believe children learn best through play, exploration, and positive relationships. Our Lead Teachers are the foundation of our classrooms, creating engaging learning environments where children develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

As a Lead Teacher, you will be responsible for planning and implementing high-quality educational experiences, mentoring Assistant Teachers, and creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom that supports every child's individual growth and development.

At Advantage ELA, you're more than a teacher—you are helping shape the future leaders of our communities.

Essential Responsibilities

• Implement developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum aligned with the Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards.
• Prepare and maintain weekly lesson plans that promote children's social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development.
• Create a warm, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment where every child can thrive.
• Maintain a classroom that meets or exceeds Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) licensing requirements and Step Up To Quality standards.
• Supervise and ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children in your care.
• Complete ongoing child observations, assessments, and developmental documentation.
• Build strong, professional relationships with families through regular communication and conferences.
• Lead classroom routines and transitions while maintaining a positive learning environment.
• Mentor and support Assistant Teachers through coaching, collaboration, and daily guidance.
• Maintain classroom organization, cleanliness, and inventory of materials and supplies.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, professional development, and center events.
• Collaborate with administration and fellow teachers to continuously improve program quality.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Attributes

• Passion for early childhood education and child-centered learning.
• Excellent communication skills with children, families, and coworkers.
• Strong classroom management and leadership abilities.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and mentor other educators.
• Organized, dependable, and self-motivated.
• Positive attitude with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Commitment to providing exceptional care and educational experiences.
• Creative, flexible, and enthusiastic about learning through play.
• Ability to maintain beautiful, organized, and engaging classroom environments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred.
• CDA Credential or willingness to obtain one (company assistance available).
• Previous experience leading a preschool or child care classroom preferred.
• Must meet all Ohio Department of Children and Youth employment requirements.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and actively participate in classroom activities throughout the day.

Why Work for Advantage Early Learning Academy?

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Health, Vision, Life & Dental Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Direct Deposit
• Tuition Assistance
• Paid Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
• Professional Development & Leadership Opportunities
• Supportive Leadership Team
• Family & Veteran Owned and Operated

At Advantage Early Learning Academy, we believe exceptional teachers change lives. Every lesson you teach, every relationship you build, and every child you encourage creates a lasting impact. If you're looking for a rewarding career where your leadership, creativity, and passion for children are valued, we invite you to become part of the AELA family.