Lead Teacher, Early Education

Pillsbury United Communities•Minneapolis, MN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Preschool Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool-aged children. This position oversees daily classroom operations, implements curriculum, supervises assistant teachers, and ensures compliance with Minnesota childcare licensing regulations and center policies. The Lead Teacher supports children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development while building strong relationships with families, staff, and the community.

Requirements

Must meet Minnesota Lead Teacher qualifications for licensed childcare centers.
Must have two years of experience as Lead Teacher
Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or qualifying coursework as defined by Minnesota licensing.
Experience working with preschool-aged children.
CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain upon hire.
Successful completion of required background study.
Strong classroom management skills.
Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field.
Experience in a licensed childcare center.
Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices.
Experience working with diverse families and communities.

Responsibilities

Open the classroom and prepare the learning environment each morning for children’s arrival.
Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum and activities that support school readiness and developmental milestones.
Create weekly lesson plans aligned with developmental goals.
Maintain a structured daily schedule that includes learning activities, meals, rest periods, outdoor play, and transitions.
Create a classroom environment that is safe, organized, clean, and welcoming.
Maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios according to Minnesota licensing regulations.
Always ensure active supervision of children.
Observe and document children’s developmental progress.
Conduct developmental screenings and assessments as required.
Identify developmental concerns and communicate appropriately with families and administration.
Support children with diverse developmental and behavioral needs.
Supervise assistant teachers, aides, substitutes, and volunteers.
Delegate classroom responsibilities appropriately.
Provide guidance and mentorship to classroom staff.
Support smooth classroom operations during center hours.
Attend staff meetings and professional development training.
Greet families during drop-off and maintain positive relationships.
Communicate regularly with parents regarding child development, behavior, and daily activities.
Conduct parent conferences twice per year.
Maintain confidentiality of children and families.
Follow all health and safety procedures required by Minnesota licensing.
Administer medication according to center policy and authorization procedures.
Maintain accurate attendance records.
Follow emergency procedures for fire drills, severe weather, lockdowns, and evacuations.
Perform monthly fire drills (year-round) and tornado drills (April-September). Logging all drills in the drill logbook.
Ensure proper sanitation and cleaning procedures are followed.
Maintain accurate child records.
Complete incident and accident reports as needed.
Ensure compliance with Minnesota childcare licensing requirements.
Follow CACFP meal guidelines when applicable.
Complete required annual training and continuing education hours.