Lead Teacher- Toddler

About the role

We are hiring a Preschool Lead Teacher to join our team of dedicated educators. Under the direction of the School Director, the Lead Teacher creates a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment, plans and delivers curriculum, leads classroom operations, implements Cadence Education programs, and supports the physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs of all children—including those with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The role models professionalism, ensures compliance with licensing and safety requirements, and partners with families and team members to support each child’s growth and success.

Why Join Us? We’re a community of professionals who care deeply about children and their growth. Our schools foster collaboration, open communication, and a supportive work environment. We prioritize work‑life balance and provide the tools and resources you need to succeed.

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

• Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
• Must meet all Department of Health Services (DHS) licensing qualifications for Lead Teachers, which may include high school diploma or GED plus required experience or college coursework in early childhood education or CDA, CCP, EEC or NAC credential.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings.

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.
• A minimum of 6‑12 months of early childhood or classroom experience is preferred, depending on education and credentials.
• CDA preferred but not required if state requirements are met.

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to follow all safety procedures, including Name‑to‑Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle‑feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
• Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Benefits

• 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, and vision options
• Additional life, disability, and retirement plans
• Educational and professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement
• Company‑paid life insurance
• Pet insurance
• Paid CDA

Pay

Competitive compensation: Pay Range $16.25 - $21.13 per hour. On‑demand pay with UKG Wallet available.

Schedule

Flexibility is essential. Schedules may change based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs. Work schedules may vary and are not guaranteed to be eight‑hour shifts. Daily end times may vary and cannot be guaranteed.