Full Job Description

Job Summary/Basic Function

The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating and implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of children in the Early ECEAP program. This role leads the daily operations of the classroom, overseeing the work of Assistant Teachers and Aides, and ensures that all activities align with state standards and program goals. The Lead Teacher promotes a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment while building positive relationships with families and the community.

Duties & Responsibilities

Instruction

• Design and implement a culturally responsive, developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports the holistic development of children.
• Guide and support children's learning through interactive, play-based activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth.
• Adapt curriculum and teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of children, ensuring inclusivity and individualized learning experiences.
• Assess and document children's development, preparing progress reports and maintaining accurate records of assessments.
• Plan and lead group activities, field trips, and other special events to enhance children's learning and social experiences.

Classroom Leadership

• Oversee the work of Assistant Teachers, Aides, and volunteers, ensuring all staff members contribute effectively to the classroom environment.
• Organize and maintain classroom materials and resources, ensuring the environment is safe, engaging, and conducive to learning.
• Monitor daily activities, including nap times, meals, transitions, and free play, to ensure a smooth flow of the day's schedule.
• Ensure compliance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) licensing requirements and program standards, maintaining a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment.
• Lead regular staff meetings and training sessions to support staff development and ensure consistent practices in the classroom.
• Ensure all program activities align with Early Childhood Education and Assistance Programs (ECEAP) standards and best practices in early childhood education.
• Be responsible for knowing and adhering to both WAC licensing requirements and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Accreditation Criteria and Code of Ethical Conduct.

Family Engagement

• Build strong relationships with families, regularly communicating about children's progress, classroom activities, and upcoming events.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences to discuss children's development and collaborate on strategies to support learning both at home and in the classroom.
• Lead family engagement activities and events that foster a strong partnership between the classroom, families, and the community.
• Provide families with resources and support to promote their child's growth and learning outside the classroom.
• Complete enrollment processes and maintain appropriate records of curriculum, parent communication, staff meetings, and other required documentation to meet licensing standards.

General Duties

• Engage in ongoing professional development and reflective practice to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the Early Learning Center and its programs.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

Required upon hire or Professional Development Plan (PDP) committing to completion within five (5) years: Washington State Early Childhood Education Certificate (Full) or DCYF Equivalent; Infant and Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential; Two (2) years of experience working in a group setting with children; Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Ability to comply with DCYF Lead Teacher requirements, including: Fingerprint-based background check; Tuberculosis test; MMR immunization or immunity; Eighteen (18) years of age or older; Commitment to the health, education, and well-being of infants, toddlers, and children; Skilled at building trusting, respectful partnerships between families, staff, and community; Ability to assist in creating a developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive learning environment; Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage positively with children, families, and staff.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education.

Physical Demands

Ability to sit, stand, and walk indoors and on uneven outdoor surfaces; Ability to monitor children and ensure their safety indoors and outdoors; Ability to exchange information in person and on the phone; Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds; Must be able to crouch, kneel, bend, reach, and sit at low tables to engage with children; Ability to operate office equipment, including computers, printers, and telecommunication devices; Ability to read, analyze, and interpret information from various sources.

Work Hours

Full-time position (37.5 hours), Monday through Friday, 12 months.