What are the responsibilities and job description for the Early Childhood Lead Teacher position at EduCare Preschool & Child Care, Leap Ahead Learning Center, & Community Early Education Center?
Job Summary
The Lead Teacher is responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment while supervising children and supporting staff.
Key Responsibilities
- Implement program goals, policies, and developmentally appropriate practices
- Supervise children at all times and support their emotional, social, and developmental growth
- Respond to individual needs, behaviors, abilities, and cultural backgrounds
- Plan and lead engaging, open-ended, and multicultural learning activities
- Prepare classroom materials and maintain an organized, safe learning environment
- Document attendance, meals, and child progress (needs, strengths, interests)
- Conduct developmental screenings and assessments at required intervals
- Follow health plans (allergies, medications, special diets)
- Partner with parents to set and update educational/family goals
- Supervise, train, and evaluate assistant teachers; maintain required documentation
- Support child transitions into and out of the program
- Participate in meetings, trainings, conferences, and home visits as required
- Encourage parent and volunteer involvement; communicate program updates
- Assist with child recruitment and ongoing professional development
- Register with the Montana Early Childhood Project Practitioner Registry (if not already)
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- CPR (Infant/Child/Adult) & First Aid certification (or ability to obtain shortly after hire)
- Either:
- 2 years experience in a licensed early childhood program
- OR Level 2 on the Montana Early Childhood Practitioner Registry
Preferred:
- CDA credential or Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education (or related field)
Skills & Abilities
- Strong communication (written and verbal English)
- Ability to work with diverse, low-income, and high-risk families
- Team-oriented with leadership and staff supervision skills
- Strong organization, documentation, and confidentiality practices
- Problem-solving and ability to lead small groups
- Knowledge of community resources for families
- Ability to complete online trainings
Physical Requirements
- Ability to see and hear clearly
- Frequent bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor (up to 75% of the time)
- Lift or assist children up to 60 lbs
- Use hands for documentation and classroom tasks
Benefits
- 401(k) with employer match
- Health insurance
- Paid time off (increases with seniority)
- Flexible schedule
- Professional development support
Work Location
In person
Pay: $13.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
Salary : $13 - $20