Preschool Head Teacher, Alpha - $120,000/year USD

About the role

“I got my time back, and I still get to be passionate and work with students.” — Christie, former school principal, now Alpha Reading Specialist. Alpha is hiring full‑time, on‑site Pre‑K teachers who believe play is serious work, relationships come before academics, and every interaction is an opportunity for growth. You will lead a Pre‑K classroom where emotional safety, curiosity, and measurable developmental growth are equally important, designing rich, play‑based experiences that build confidence, resilience, early literacy, numeracy, and a genuine love of learning.

Responsibilities

• Design joyful, sensory‑rich learning experiences that intentionally build early literacy, numeracy, self‑regulation, and social development.
• Create a classroom where every child feels emotionally safe, deeply known, and excited to come to school every day.
• Observe children’s development in real time, document meaningful progress, and use those insights to personalize learning.
• Adjust activities around each child’s interests and developmental needs, helping every learner make measurable progress.
• Partner closely with families to share growth, celebrate milestones, and support each child’s development beyond the classroom.

Requirements

• Full‑time, on‑site work at one of Alpha’s campuses in Manhattan, New York or Chicago, Illinois (relocation assistance available).
• Associate’s degree or higher, or any U.S. state teaching license or certification.
• At least 2 years of experience working with children ages 3‑5 in a structured, play‑based classroom or group setting.
• Experience documenting developmental milestones using a structured framework or assessment tool (e.g., Teaching Strategies GOLD, ASQ, HighScope COR, etc.).
• Authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Bank Street, or other inquiry‑based early childhood program.
• Experience in an independent school or an academically ambitious preschool.
• Familiarity with child‑development frameworks, observation tools, or portfolio‑based assessment.
• Experience adapting play‑based activities to individual interests, needs, and developmental goals.

Benefits

Full‑time W‑2 employee with immediate access to benefits (see Alpha benefits link). Year‑long position.

Pay

Compensation: $120,000 USD per year, paid weekly.

Schedule

Full‑time, on‑site schedule.

About Alpha

Alpha reimagines the school day around faster learning, stronger mentorship, and more time for students to build real‑world skills. The company offers six‑figure roles, a fast‑moving, ambitious, student‑focused culture, and the opportunity to have real impact on education.