Lead Teacher (Naples Center)

Center.

Job Description

Typical duties may include but are not limited to:

• Plans, implements, and evaluates developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of children.
• Maintains a safe and nurturing classroom environment in compliance with Florida DCF licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and early childhood best practices.
• Serves as a team leader in the classroom, guiding and supporting staff while assuming primary responsibility for classroom management, daily routines, transitions, and the overall learning environment.
• Provides guidance, direction, and support to Assistant Teachers to ensure consistent classroom practices and smooth daily childcare operations. Ensuring the safety, well-being and supervision of all children at all times.
• Observes, documents, and assesses children's development and progress in accordance with program requirements and assessment tools.
• Communicates effectively and professionally with families regarding children's development, classroom activities, and program expectations.
• Monitors child's progress through observations and assessments to support individual learning and development.
• Ensures accurate and timely completion of required documentation, including lesson plans, observations, incident/accident reports, and licensing records.
• Serves as a mandated reporter and reports suspected cases of child abuse or neglect in compliance with Florida DCF licensing laws and center policies.
• Demonstrates and encourages best teaching practices, professional behavior, and positive interactions with children, families, and staff.
• Assists in the supervision and mentoring of Assistant Teachers, student workers, OPS staff, and volunteers as assigned.
• Reports accidents, injuries and illnesses to parents and supervisors. Completes required documentation, including accident and incident reports, in accordance with Florida DCF licensing laws and center procedures.
• Shares responsibility for maintaining classroom and common-area cleanliness and organization as part of a team.

Other Duties

• Attends staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities as required.
• Collaborates with administration to support program goals and center-wide initiatives.
• Assists in other classrooms as needed to support center operations.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• This position requires an Associate Degree in Child Development.
• Ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire required credentials required for age group and type of early childhood education classroom.
• Current American Red Cross CPR/AED and First Aid certification or ability to obtain within six months of employment.
• Professional experience in a licensed child care program or related experience.
• Completion of the required 45 clock-hour childcare training as mandated by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Training must begin within 90 days of hire and be completed within one year.
• Experience operating a personal computer and proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook).
• Must meet all requirements of Chapters 402 and 435 F.S.
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution in Early Childhood Education or related area.
• Previous experience in a Lead Teacher or classroom leadership role in a childcare facility or public/private school programs.
• Experience with curriculum planning, child assessments, and family communication.
• Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or equivalent certificate; or 9 college credits in Early Childhood Education and one year of appropriate experience working with infants, toddlers, and/or preschool children.