Lead Teacher

Early Connections Learning Centers•Colorado Springs, CO

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Early Connections Learning Centers is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high quality early care and education for ALL children. Every position works in coordination to achieve this mission. Since 1897, our work to provide high quality early childhood education has positively impacted thousands of children and families in the Pikes Peak region. Our nationally accredited programs help build a strong foundation for young children to be happy and successful in learning and life. The Lead Teacher plays a vital role in shaping each child’s early learning experience through intentional teaching, creativity, and compassion. This position leads classroom planning and implementation for children’s daily activities, fostering an environment where curiosity and connection can thrive. The Lead Teacher models best practices in early childhood education, supports teachers, and partners with families to ensure every child’s individual needs are met. As a member of the Early Connections teaching team, the Lead Teacher contributes to our mission by creating joyful, developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with our curriculum, values, and quality standards. This position is ideal for an educator who values collaboration, continuous learning, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on children, families, and our community. Full-time, non exempt position with 8- or 10-hour shifts available.

Requirements

Minimum Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development or Bachelor’s Degree in an unrelated field plus > 6 credit hours in ECE and 9 months classroom experience; 24+ ECE credits required for Head Start/Early Head Start classrooms
Documented experience teaching in the Early Childhood Education field working with children (birth to age six)
Demonstrated passion for working with children and a strong professional foundation in the principles, theories, and best practices of early childhood education, including care for infants through school-age youth
Prior to employment, candidates must pass federal and state criminal and Colorado Department of Early Childhood background checks, pre-employment drug screen, physical, and verification of employment, education and/or credentials and, by position, valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

This position will remain open until filled.

Responsibilities

Create a joyful, engaging classroom where every child feels valued, and inspired to explore.
Plan and implement meaningful learning experiences that support each child’s growth across all developmental domains.
Model excellence in early education practice by integrating play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Teaching Strategies GOLD, Colorado Early Learning Guidelines, and NAEYC standards.
Ensure a safe, healthy, and organized environment — indoors and outdoors — that invites curiosity while meeting all Colorado Department of Human Services licensing regulations, NAEYC accreditation standards, and Early Connections health and safety policies.
Collaborate with Co-Teachers to share responsibilities, guide classroom routines, and build teamwork rooted in trust, communication, and mutual respect.
Communicate weekly and through conferences to celebrate milestones, discuss progress, and strengthen each family’s understanding of their child’s development and school readiness.
Create a classroom that celebrates the individuality of every child and family—welcoming different cultures, languages, abilities, and family structures with enthusiasm and respect.
Maintain accurate attendance, meal, and assessment records; contribute to NAEYC Accreditation documentation and GOLD data collection in partnership with families.
Coordinate family events, classroom celebrations, and ongoing opportunities for parents to participate in their child’s early learning journey.
Communicate openly and respectfully with colleagues, families, and community partners, representing Early Connections’ values in all interactions.
Build trusting relationships with children, families, and colleagues, maintaining professional boundaries while fostering warmth, respect, and open communication.
Collaborate across departments to ensure that each child and family receives comprehensive support—partnering with colleagues in nutrition, behavioral health, enrollment, and administration as needed.
Communicate with honesty and empathy.
Share relevant information promptly with co-workers and supervisors to support children’s safety, well-being, and learning continuity.
Handle information about children, families, and staff with discretion and in alignment with Early Connections policies and ethical standards.
Demonstrate professionalism and positivity in every interaction, modeling Early Connections’ values of respect, excellence, professionalism, and honoring our legacy.
Participate in team meetings, trainings, and reflective practices that strengthen teaching quality and professional growth.

Benefits

Paid Time Off
13 paid holidays scheduled in 2026
19 additional days of PTO
Paid parental and medical leave
Medical, Dental, Vision
Medical insurance – ECLC pays up to 75% of employee premium
Free Employee Assistance Program with up to 5 sessions per life situation
Dental and Vision insurance
Childcare Benefit Substantial discount for childcare: employees pay $25/week for children 3+ who are enrolled at Early Connections Learning Centers
Tuition Reimbursement, Continuing Education and Training
Tuition reimbursement of $150 per 3-credit hour course is available to staff enrolled in approved coursework in Early Childhood Education or related to their position and who maintain the required grade point average.
Reimbursement may be available for pre-approved job-related certificate programs
Other Insurance
100% employer-paid Basic Term Life and AD&D Insurance
Voluntary Short Term Disability Insurance