Reports To: Center Director / Assistant Director
Position Type: Full-time

Position Summary:
The Lead Preschool Teacher is responsible for cultivating a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children (typically 3–5 years old). This role emphasizes child-led exploration, nature-based learning, and creative teaching practices, with a strong focus on gardening and innovation. The Lead Teacher models professionalism, supports assistants, and upholds licensing and center standards while fostering curiosity and confidence in young learners.

Key Responsibilities:

Curriculum & Instruction

• Design and implement a rich, play-based curriculum rooted in early childhood best practices and aligned with developmental goals.

• Integrate gardening and nature exploration into daily routines and learning experiences to promote environmental awareness, responsibility, and sensory learning.

• Use innovative tools, materials, and project-based learning to spark creativity and problem-solving.

• Support children’s emerging literacy, numeracy, motor, and social-emotional skills through hands-on, child-centered activities.

Environment & Supervision

• Create a classroom atmosphere that reflects joy, creativity, and respect for children’s interests and cultural backgrounds.

• Maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming indoor/outdoor learning environment with dedicated gardening and nature play areas.

• Provide constant, attentive supervision and care throughout the day, ensuring all health and safety guidelines are followed.

Family & Community Engagement

• Develop strong partnerships with families through open communication, regular updates, and opportunities for involvement in classroom activities.

• Share progress, insights, and developmental milestones through conferences, portfolios, and newsletters.

• Incorporate family culture, knowledge, and traditions into classroom learning.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Mentor and supervise assistant teachers and classroom aides to promote teamwork and consistency in teaching approaches.

• Participate in ongoing professional development and support the center’s mission of innovation and inclusion.

• Contribute ideas for school-wide gardening initiatives, curriculum enrichment, and seasonal projects.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all licensing, health, and safety regulations, including documentation, ratios, and classroom cleanliness.

• Model and teach hygiene, mindfulness, and healthy habits through daily routines.

• Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and child records.

Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required.

• Must meet state licensing requirements for lead preschool teachers, including training hours and background clearances.

• Experience in a licensed early childhood program, preferably with preschool-aged children.

• A passion for gardening, play-led learning, outdoor education, and creative curriculum development.

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

• CPR and First Aid certified (or willingness to obtain).

Preferred Qualities:

• Experience with emergent curriculum, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, or nature-based approaches.

• Familiarity with gardening programs, composting, or sustainability education for young children.

• Ability to design lesson plans that incorporate seasonal changes and outdoor play.