Lead Teacher

Position Overview

Position Summary

The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support children's social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development.

Lead Teachers work closely with assistant teachers, other staff members, and families to provide each child with high-quality care and opportunities to learn through play, exploration, creativity, and positive interactions.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of lesson planning and early childhood education practices.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Patience, professionalism, dependability, and flexibility.
• Strong communication skills with children, families, coworkers, and administration.
• Ability to complete required classroom documentation and paperwork accurately and on time.
• Ability to maintain a safe, organized, and positive classroom environment.

Classroom Planning & Organization

• Develop and maintain weekly lesson plans aligned with The Creative Curriculum.
• Follow North Carolina child care requirements for classroom organization and room arrangement.
• Maintain accurate daily attendance records.
• Complete regular observations and documentation for each child.
• Prepare accurate incident and classroom reports when required.
• Maintain organized classroom and student files.
• Properly identify children's cots, mats, cubbies, and personal belongings.
• Rotate toys, learning materials, and classroom activities to maintain children's interest and engagement.
• Prepare materials and resources needed for planned lessons and activities.
• Maintain classroom cleanliness, organization, and safety.
• Share appropriate classroom responsibilities with the Assistant Teacher.

Learning Activities

• Plan engaging indoor and outdoor learning experiences.
• Create a welcoming classroom environment that supports current learning themes.
• Incorporate positive character development, kindness, respect, and good decision-making into daily activities.
• Provide developmentally appropriate activities based on children's ages and abilities.
• Teach children age-appropriate fire, weather, and emergency safety procedures.
• Help children participate safely and calmly in required fire and tornado drills.

Interaction With Children

• Maintain appropriate supervision of children at all times.
• Assist children with meals, feeding, toileting, and other daily care needs when necessary.
• Lead group-time and individual learning activities.
• Use open-ended questions to encourage creativity, communication, and critical thinking.
• Spend meaningful time interacting with each child.
• Model appropriate language, behavior, and social skills.
• Listen carefully to children and respond appropriately to their needs.
• Use positive guidance and redirection techniques to encourage appropriate behavior and engagement.

Communication With Families & Staff

• Maintain professional behavior at all times.
• Model appropriate language and communication for children.
• Provide parents and guardians with verbal and/or written information about their child's day.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences and staff meetings when required.
• Participate in family engagement activities and center events.
• Treat children, families, coworkers, and administration with respect.
• Report conflicts, concerns, or unusual situations to the Director.
• Maintain a calm and professional demeanor in challenging situations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with the training and orientation of Assistant Teachers, new employees, volunteers, and substitute teachers.
• Complete required annual professional development and in-service training hours.
• Follow all Little Ones World Academy policies and procedures.
• Participate in family events, center activities, and fundraising programs.
• Perform additional reasonable duties assigned by the Director.

Employment Requirements