Preschool Lead Teacher

Under the direction of the School Director and Lead Teacher, the Teacher supports daily classroom operations and the implementation of Cadence Education programs. This role helps create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that supports children’s physical, social, emotional, developmental, and behavioral needs, including those with IEPs.

Responsibilities

• Support a positive, inclusive classroom environment where children are treated with dignity, respect, and care.
• Greet children and families daily and help establish professional, welcoming relationships.
• Assist in recognizing and responding to individual developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, including following IEPs and behavioral support plans as directed.
• Support the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and Cadence Signature Programs.
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with families, coworkers, and leadership using Cadence-approved tools and systems.
• Follow the Cadence Education Safety and Supervision Manual, including documenting and reporting accidents and incidents according to policy.
• Assist in managing, documenting, and escalating child behaviors in alignment with Cadence policies and classroom expectations.
• Adhere to all Cadence Education policies and procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development, which may occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.

Requirements

• Ability to consistently follow safety procedures, including Name-to-Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle-feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a classroom team.
• Ability to read, write, and speak effectively in English.
• Must meet minimum experience and education requirements for the state of employment.
• Previous experience in an early childhood or group care setting is preferred.
• Must meet all state licensing qualifications for a Teacher in a licensed childcare center.
• 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, but not required if state licensing requirements are met.
• CDA preferred but not required if state requirements are satisfied.

Schedule

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

Benefits

Available to full-time Teachers:

• Competitive pay + on-demand pay with UKG Wallet—access your earnings when you need them.
• Hourly pay rate based on level of education and experience: $18.00–$23.25.
• 50% childcare tuition discount.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and pet insurance.
• Paid time off that grows with seniority, paid holidays, and company-paid life insurance.
• Paid CDA, tuition reimbursement, and professional development opportunities.

About the Company

At Cadence Education, we’re committed to shaping bright futures for children, families, and our teams. We offer a research-based curriculum in warm, home-like environments and foster a collaborative, supportive workplace where educators can grow and thrive. With 340+ schools across 30 states and over 30 years of expertise, Cadence Education is a leader in early childhood education.