Lead Preschool Teacher

About the role

Join our passionate, professional team in our state-of-the-art preschool, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated every day. At The Gardner School of Edina, we believe learning begins with love—for children, for teaching, and for making a difference.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire your classroom with creativity, care, and excellence
• Mentor assistant teachers and model The Gardner School’s core values: Children First, Trust, Innovation, and Make a Difference
• Build meaningful relationships with families and children
• Plan engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons that spark curiosity
• Maintain safety, compliance, and a joyful classroom environment

Requirements

• CDA or Associate's degree (required); Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related degree (preferred)
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
• 2+ years of early childhood education experience (lead or co-lead experience preferred)
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Regular and reliable attendance
• Intermediate PC skills and proficiency with general administrative tasks

Skills and Physical Requirements

• Active engagement throughout the day including standing, sitting on the floor, bending, and lifting up to ~60 lbs
• Ability to fulfill cognitive and interpersonal aspects of classroom leadership including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Childcare tuition discount
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Pay

The starting pay range is $18.70–$23.10 per hour, based on education and experience.

Career Growth

• Ongoing professional development and training
• Opportunities for advancement within our growing organization
• A supportive, mission-driven culture