Lead Preschool Teacher - UPK

About the role

The Preschool Lead Teacher will play a vital role in creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children. This position is responsible for planning and delivering curriculum, leading classroom operations, and implementing Cadence Education programs while supporting the physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs of all children—including those with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment where every child is treated with dignity, respect, and care.
• Build positive, professional relationships with children and families, including daily greetings and ongoing communication.
• Recognize and respond to diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, including implementing IEPs and behavioral support plans as required.
• Plan, implement, and document developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Cadence educational philosophy and Signature Programs.
• Use Cadence-required systems and communication tools to communicate professionally with families, coworkers, and leadership.
• Maintain a safe and well-supervised classroom, following the Cadence Education Safety and Supervision Manual at all times.
• Accurately document and report accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors in accordance with company policy and licensing requirements.
• Follow all Cadence Education policies, procedures, and standards outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development, which may occur outside of regularly scheduled work hours.

Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to follow all safety procedures, including Name-to-Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle-feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Current and active IA Teaching License.
• Experience: Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center. A minimum of 2 years of early childhood or classroom experience is preferred, depending on education and credentials.
• Credentials & Licensing: Must meet all Department of Health Services (DHS) licensing qualifications for Lead Teachers.

Qualifications

• Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: Demonstrated ability to follow all safety procedures, including Name-to-Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle-feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
• Manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Skills

• Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation: Hourly Pay Range $17 - $23.50 On demand pay with UKG Wallet 50% childcare tuition discount 401(k) with employer match
• Comprehensive benefit package for all full-time employees, including Paid time off that increases with seniority Paid holidays Medical, dental, vision options available Additional life, disability, and retirement plans Tuition reimbursement Company-paid life insurance Pet insurance Paid CDA