Lead Teacher

About the role

The Lead Teacher is a direct service member of the TCDC team, responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing all aspects of classroom activities in alignment with Thompson’s philosophy and policies. This role focuses on addressing the physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of children while ensuring a high-quality classroom environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct service and supervision to children in the classroom, adapting to meet individual needs within the curriculum.
• Prepare materials in advance to implement daily plans and enhance cognitive development for school readiness.
• Coordinate evaluations and implement services for preschool children with special needs.
• Collaborate with behavior modification counselors to establish behavior treatment plans.
• Supervise, guide, and model professional methods for staff, parents, and volunteers.
• Oversee classroom quality, including cleanliness, repairs, and stocked supplies.
• Build meaningful relationships with parents, guardians, and families, respecting cultural diversity.
• Maintain accurate and timely child records and contribute to center communications.
• Intervene appropriately to meet the needs of children and families, fostering skills and confidence.
• Work as a partner with other team members and demonstrate flexibility in scheduling.
• Use technology to track student assessments and observations effectively.
• Apply NC Foundations, Teaching Strategies Gold, and Creative Curriculum into lesson plans.
• Assume responsibility for personal professional development, including setting goals and completing continuing education.
• Participate in evaluation processes and serve on professional committees.
• Perform additional duties as required by administration.

Requirements

• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or equivalent, with 2 years of experience working with children aged Birth–5.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Knowledge of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) training, Environmental Rating Scales, and Division of Child Development and Early Education regulations is a plus.

Skills

• Personal proficiency in early childhood education and classroom management.
• Ability to work as a team player and build relationships with children, families, and staff.
• Effective use of agency tools, processes, and procedures.
• Strong time management, including meeting deadlines and managing daily discipline.
• Commitment to professional growth and development.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk, sit, use hands to handle objects/tools, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear.
• Vision abilities including close, distant, color, peripheral, and depth perception.
• Perform physical tasks such as standing for extended periods.