Lead Preschool Teacher

Native American Youth And Family Center • Portland, OR

10d • Onsite

About The Position

NAYA Family Center is seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Preschool Teacher to foster the growth, development, and school readiness of preschool-aged children. You will plan and implement developmentally and culturally appropriate curriculum, support children’s social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development, and partner closely with families to create a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment. This role ensures compliance with Preschool for All Performance Standards, USDA guidelines, state licensing regulations, and agency policies.

Requirements

• Lived or professional experience working with diverse populations, particularly within Native American communities.
• Skilled in child development, positive discipline, and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Several years of experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom setting, including observing and documenting development and implementing curriculum.
• Experience with state childcare licensing guidelines.
• Good judgment in problem-solving and crisis management, maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.
• Thrive in a team-oriented workplace, adaptable, and willing to roll up your sleeves and pitch in, even when it’s not your job.
• Connect with children and their guardians in ways that motivate better outcomes while demonstrating patience, empathy, and accountability.
• Strong communication skills, engaging effectively with diverse groups and adapting to varied contexts.
• Demonstrate self-awareness, listening deeply, centering others, and taking accountability for your actions.
• Consistently punctual, reliable, and dependable in support of your team and clients.
• Registered with the Central Background Registry (CBR) and understand the importance of maintaining child and family confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

• Step Level 7 through the Oregon Registry Online (ORO)
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or CDA Preschool Credential preferred
• Certified (or able to certify) in CPR, First Aid, and AED
• Hold a Food Handler’s Card for Childcare

Responsibilities

• Work directly with preschool-aged children throughout the day, supporting social-emotional growth, independence, and school readiness
• Assist in implementing developmentally and culturally appropriate lessons and activities designed by the lead teacher or curriculum plan
• Maintain a safe, healthy, and welcoming classroom environment, following all health, safety, and nutrition standards
• Support children during meals, nap times, toileting, play, and transitions between activities
• Observe, document, and share children’s development and daily progress with the teaching team
• Build positive relationships with families through daily communication and involvement in classroom activities
• Collaborate with classroom staff, aides, specialists, and volunteers to ensure smooth daily routines
• Prepare and organize classroom materials, cleaning, and supplies to support lessons and activities
• Participate in trainings, staff meetings, and professional development to enhance classroom practice
• Follow emergency procedures, administer First Aid/CPR as needed, and maintain a safe environment
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and culturally responsive classroom community

Benefits

• Free medical insurance for employees
• Free dental insurance for employees
• Free vision insurance for employees
• Affordable options for family members' medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 6% match
• Paid vacation
• 16 paid holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level