Lead Teacher - Preschool

Summary

The Lead Teacher is responsible for the planning, implementation, and coordination of a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate early childhood program that meets the emotional, social, physical, and cognitive needs of each child. The Lead Teacher ensures compliance with all applicable Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC) licensing regulations, NAEYC standards, and best practices in early childhood education.

Duties

• Serve as the primary educator and team lead in the classroom, supervising assistant teachers, aides, and volunteers.
• Develop and implement a curriculum aligned with the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards (CT ELDS).
• Design daily routines and classroom schedules that include opportunities for active play, rest, and individualized attention.
• Observe and assess children\'s growth using approved screening tools; complete bi-annual assessments and maintain portfolios.
• Identify developmental concerns and report them to the Director and families; support referrals as needed.
• Maintain a safe, healthy, and engaging classroom environment in line with state standards.
• Ensure supervision and staff-to-child ratios meet OEC regulations at all times.
• Prepare children for kindergarten readiness using developmentally appropriate methods.
• Develop weekly lesson plans that reflect children's interests and needs.
• Communicate regularly with families through reports, daily updates, and conferences.
• Maintain accurate records such as attendance, incident reports, and time sheets.
• Comply with mandated reporting requirements for suspected abuse or neglect.
• Participate in staff meetings, classroom observations, and professional development.
• Coordinate enrichment activities, including field trips, with appropriate safety measures.
• Ensure classroom materials are safe and developmentally appropriate; replace as needed.
• Support the professional growth of assistants through mentoring and feedback.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.
• Responsible for training assistant teachers, volunteers, interns on classroom management.

Requirements

Physical and Work Requirements

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