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3.23.1: Lead Teacher

  • Page ID
    41728
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    Job Description: Lead Teacher

     

    Position Title

    Lead Teacher

    Reports To

    Program Director

     

    Position Summary

    The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising a developmentally appropriate educational program for children in their care. This role requires ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that fosters the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth of children, in alignment with the program's philosophy and policies.


     

    Scope and Responsibilities

    Classroom Management

    • Create and maintain a safe, clean, and engaging classroom environment.
    • Supervise and guide assistant teachers and volunteers in the classroom.
    • Establish and enforce routines and behavior management strategies that promote positive social interactions.

     

    Curriculum Development

    • Develop and implement lesson plans that align with the center’s curriculum and meet the needs of children’s developmental stages.
    • Integrate creative, hands-on activities that promote growth in key learning domains (social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language).
    • Observe and assess children’s progress and adjust teaching strategies accordingly.

     

    Child Safety and Welfare

    • Supervise children at all times, ensuring their safety and well-being.
    • Follow all safety procedures and respond appropriately to emergencies.
    • Administer first aid and CPR as needed and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

     

    Parent Communication

    • Build positive relationships with families through regular communication about their child’s progress and center events.
    • Conduct parent-teacher conferences and provide feedback regarding children’s growth and development.

     

    Administrative Duties

    • Maintain accurate records, including attendance, incident reports, and developmental assessments.
    • Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities.
    • Ensure compliance with licensing and accreditation standards.

     

    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

    Knowledge

    • Strong understanding of child development and early childhood education principles.
    • Knowledge of state licensing and accreditation requirements for early childhood programs.
    • Familiarity with age-appropriate curriculum development and assessment tools.

     

    Skills

    • Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
    • Effective communication and interpersonal skills with children, parents, and colleagues.
    • Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate engaging educational activities.

     

    Abilities

    • Demonstrate patience, compassion, and enthusiasm for working with young children.
    • Adapt to the needs of individual children and adjust teaching strategies accordingly.
    • Work collaboratively with a team to ensure the success of the classroom and center.

     

    Professional Qualifications

    • Minimum of an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field (Bachelor’s preferred).
    • At least two years of experience in an early childhood education setting.
    • Current certification in First Aid and CPR.
    • Satisfactory criminal records check and fingerprint clearance.
    • Completion of required health screenings and proof of immunizations.
    • Ongoing commitment to professional development and training.

     

    Working Conditions

    • Environment:
      • Work is performed in a classroom and outdoor setting with frequent interaction with children, parents, and staff.
      • Exposure to cleaning materials and potential minor illnesses common in young children.
    • Physical Requirements:
      • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, bend, stoop, sit on the floor, and stand for extended periods.
      • Ability to respond quickly to children’s needs in emergency situations.
    • Hours:
      • Full-time position with standard operating hours, including occasional evenings or weekends for training or events.

     

    Additional Expectations

    The Lead Teacher will serve as a role model for children and staff, demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, effective teamwork, and a passion for early childhood education.


    This job description provides a clear understanding of the Lead Teacher’s role and responsibilities while ensuring compliance with licensing and safety standards.


    3.23.1: Lead Teacher is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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