Lead Preschool Teacher

About the role

We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business. At The Gardner School of Franklin, we believe learning begins with love — for children, for teaching, and for making a difference. 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.

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

Qualifications

• Education/Certification:
  • 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)
• Experience: 2+ years of early childhood education experience (lead or co-lead experience preferred)
• Knowledge, Skills And Physical Requirements:
  • Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
  • Regular and reliable attendance
  • Intermediate PC skills and proficiency with general administrative tasks
  • 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 a classroom leadership including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently, sufficient to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports
  • 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

Career Growth

• Ongoing professional development and training
• Opportunities for advancement within our growing organization
• Access to our company-sponsored CDA program
• Supportive, mission-driven culture

Pay

The pay range for this position is $17.00–$23.00 per hour, based on education and experience.