Preschool Lead Teacher

We are hiring a dedicated Preschool Lead Teacher to join our team of educators. Our schools foster collaboration, open communication, and a supportive work environment with a focus on work-life balance and professional growth.

About the role

Under the direction of the School Director, the Lead Teacher creates a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment. This position plans and delivers curriculum, leads classroom operations, and implements 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.
• 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.
• Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
• A minimum of 6–12 months of early childhood or classroom experience is preferred, depending on education and credentials.
• 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.
• CDA preferred but not required if state requirements are met.

Pay

Hourly pay rate: $18.75 - $24.00 based on level of education and experience.

Benefits

• On-demand pay with UKG Wallet.
• 50% childcare tuition discount.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Comprehensive benefits package for 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.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Company-paid life insurance.
  • Pet insurance.
  • Paid CDA.

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.

Location: Holmes, NY