Lead Teacher (Preschool/Toddler)

HORIZON EDUCATION CENTERS•Lakewood, OH

22h•$16 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Horizon Education Centers is hiring a Preschool or Toddler Lead Teacher for new classrooms at its Lakewood Childcare Center in Lakewood, Ohio. The role creates a positive, engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environment for young children and supports their social, emotional, and academic growth. The teacher plans and leads classroom activities, builds relationships with families, and works with teachers, center staff, and leadership to support children and families. The position is full-time, with exact hours to be determined. Pay is $15.50–$19.00 per hour, based on education, experience, and OCCRRA Career Pathway Level.

Requirements

For Preschool Lead: A current CDA is required.
For Toddler Lead: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
For Preschool Lead: OCCRRA Career Pathway Level 3 or higher is required.
For Toddler Lead: OCCRRA Career Pathway Level 1 or higher is required.
Experience in a toddler or preschool classroom setting is required.
Willingness to update job knowledge through required training, DCY licensing rules, SUTQ professional development opportunities, and industry trends.
Ability to adapt quickly to changing environments and assignments.
Promptness and reliability, and a genuine love of children.
Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 40 lbs. as required.
Must pass background checks and physical/medical screening as required.

Nice To Haves

For Preschool Lead: An associate degree or higher in early childhood education (ECE) or a related field is preferred.
For Toddler Lead: A CDA or an associate degree or higher in ECE or a related field is preferred.
Experience with Creative Curriculum is preferred.
Strong familiarity with lesson planning incorporating all domains of the Ohio Early Learning Content Standards.

Responsibilities

Plan and implement daily lesson plans that support developmentally appropriate practices.
Provide high-quality interactions and learning experiences for toddler- or preschool-aged children.
Maintain a clean, safe, and nurturing classroom environment.
Supervise children at all times and ensure compliance with licensing regulations and best practices.
Complete required documentation, including attendance, screenings, assessments, and progress reports.
Conduct developmental screenings and assessments as required.
Partner with families and provide referrals or resources when needs are identified.
Collaborate with teachers, center staff, and leadership to support children and families.
Assist with classroom operations, including meal service when needed.
Build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
Maintain confidentiality of child, family, and staff information.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Free virtual health care and mental health care for year-round or seasonal employees working at least 20 hours per week, subsidized by Horizon.
Medical coverage for year-round employees working at least 30 hours per week.
Dental, vision, and life insurance for year-round employees working at least 20 hours per week.
Pre-paid employment screenings and onboarding, including fingerprints and physical/immunization requirements.
Paid time off after a 90-day probationary period.
Holiday pay after the first full pay period for new hires.
Paid professional development for full- or part-time positions.
Learn and Earn Tuition Programs for year-round positions of at least 20 hours per week.
403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with match options after one year of employment for year-round employees working at least 20 hours per week.
Discounted childcare for full-time, part-time, or seasonal employees, subject to application or proof of ineligibility for publicly funded childcare.