Lead Teacher

Stepping Stones is seeking a motivated lead teacher to join our team.  The lead teacher will be responsible for providing an early childhood education program for a group of children ages infants up to five years of age.  The lead teacher addresses all areas of development and meets the individual needs of each child.  In partnership with the parents, the Lead Teacher observes and assesses children’s development, plans children’s curriculum based on child development knowledge, designs the learning environment, and implements and supervises developmentally appropriate learning activities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop an indoor and outdoor learning environment that provides a variety of age-appropriate experiences to foster child exploration and discovery.
2. Use a play-based curriculum with project-based studies that provides opportunities for each child to meet learning expectations.
3. Model appropriate and respectful behavior to the children and fellow staff.
4. Support children’s social and emotional development through positive child guidance approaches and the development of positive relationships in the classroom.
5. Asses each child’s learning needs through the Ages and Stages assessment tool with the ongoing development of individual learning plans if needed.
6. Lead the classroom team in a professional way in which assistant teachers feel included. Provide directions for the assistant teacher as needed.
7. Performs other functions as necessary or as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. At least 2 years of experience in a childcare setting
2. High school diploma or equivalent
3. Demonstrate ability to build positive relationships with children
4. Demonstrate ability to work efficiently within a team
5. Demonstrate computer skills, organizational skills and commitment to follow through on tasks with minimal supervision
6. Demonstrate the ability to work with people, including parents and other staff.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMNTS

1. Work in a preschool setting arranging furniture and classroom learning areas.
2. Have the ability to lift fifty pounds.
3. Be able to perform stationary routine and repetitive tasks for extended periods.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

1. Successful completion of a criminal record and fingerprint background check.
2. CPR/FIRST AID, Universal Precautions, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse, and Essentials in Childcare within the first 3 months of employment.
3. 10 hours of continuing education within the first year of employment with 6 hours annually thereafter.
4. Update physical and immunizations or proper exemption paperwork.