Lead Teacher, Three- and Four-Year-Old Classroom

Position Summary

Masters Academy is seeking a dedicated and passionate Lead Teacher for our 3- & 4-Year-Old Classroom. This individual will be responsible for guiding a group of up to 15 children while creating a safe, nurturing, and developmentally rich environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong classroom leadership, a deep understanding of early childhood development, and a collaborative approach that supports children, families, and fellow staff members.

Required Qualifications

Qualifications of Teacher / Lead Caregiver

Candidates must meet the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) credentialing requirements for a Lead Teacher. All applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:

• Be at least eighteen (18) years of age
• Possess one of the following academic credentials or combinations of education and experience:
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential issued by the Council for Professional Recognition
• Child Development and Related Care Diploma from an accredited vocational institute or similar Department-approved credential including an intensive child-care practicum
• Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC) in:
• Early Childhood Education or Child Development
• Infant and Toddler
• Program Administration
• School Age and Youth Care
• Technical College Diploma (TCD) in Early Childhood Education or Child Development
• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development (AA, AAS, AAT)
• Paraprofessional Certificate issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission
• 25 quarter hours or 15 semester hours in Early Childhood Education or Child Development from an accredited college or university
• Bachelor’s Degree (non-ECE) plus 3 months of qualifying child-care experience
• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development
• Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development

Additional Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to pass all DECAL and GaPSC background checks and fingerprinting
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain immediately after hire)

Preferred Experience

• At least one year of experience as a lead or assistant teacher in a licensed preschool or childcare setting
• Familiarity with GELDS (Georgia Early Learning and Development Standards)
• Experience independently planning curriculum and managing classroom environments

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with GELDS
• Provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment that supports children's growth
• Lead daily routines and transitions with consistency and structure
• Observe, assess, and document children’s developmental progress
• Communicate regularly with families through daily updates, conferences, and progress reports
• Supervise, mentor, and collaborate with other teachers and admin
• Maintain classroom cleanliness and follow all licensing, health, and safety guidelines
• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and ongoing professional development
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall operation of the classroom and school

Required Skills & Attributes

• Strong understanding of child development and best practices for 3- and 4-year-old learners
• Effective classroom management and organizational skills
• Ability to build warm, respectful, and supportive relationships with children and families
• Positive, team-oriented mindset and commitment to continuous improvement
• Dependable, proactive, and flexible within a dynamic preschool setting

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on education and experience
• Paid time off
• Access to employee-paid supplemental insurance plans (life, illness, accident, etc.)
• Support for required annual training and ongoing professional development

To Apply

Please email your resume, cover letter, and relevant credentials to Masters Academy with the subject line:
Lead Teacher Application – [Your Name]
Qualified applicants will be contacted to schedule an interview.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

License/Certification:

• TCC or CDA Teaching Certificate (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Watkinsville, GA 30677 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $18