Early Learning Lead Teacher

Akin (formerly Childhaven)•Burien, WA

6d•$26 - $34•Onsite

About The Position

Akin is seeking a dedicated Lead Teacher for its Early Learning team. The Lead Teacher leads a classroom and creates a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment where children feel valued and supported. The role includes planning and leading daily activities, developing lesson plans, guiding classroom staff, and building strong partnerships with families. The teacher supports children's social, emotional, physical, and academic development while recognizing each child's strengths and individual needs. The position follows Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), Washington State Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) requirements, Early Achievers standards, and Akin policies and procedures. The role is based in an active early learning classroom and involves regular interaction with children, families, and colleagues. It requires a rotating schedule during center operating hours, occasional travel to other Akin locations within Washington State, and occasional required after-hours family events. The environment may involve moderate noise and frequent interruptions. The position also includes computer-based documentation and administrative work and may involve access to protected health information or confidential identifiable information. Akin offers competitive pay, medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, and paid time off. Target starting pay is $26.12–$30.69 per hour for candidates with an associate degree and $28.74–$34.48 per hour for candidates with a bachelor's degree. Offers depend on relevant qualifications.

Requirements

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), or an approved Professional Development Plan outlining how required qualifications will be obtained within the designated timeframe.
Equivalent degrees and credentials from other states or countries may be accepted with approval through Washington State's MERIT system.
Proof of a physical examination completed within the past 12 months, with updates every three years.
One-step Mantoux TB skin test before employment, or written documentation of a negative test within the previous 12 months; candidates with a history of a positive test must provide documentation of treatment or a negative chest X-ray.
Proof of MMR vaccination or a positive MMR titer.
Successful completion of Akin and Washington State DCYF criminal history background checks, including fingerprinting and MERIT system registration.
Valid driver's license and favorable driving record, with no more than three violations in the past three years.
Within 30 days of hire: CPR and Pediatric First Aid certification, HIV/AIDS and Bloodborne Pathogen training, Food Handler's Permit, and other assigned or required training.
Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate teaching practices.
Strong communication and relationship-building skills with children, families, and colleagues.
Ability to lead, encourage, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
Creativity, flexibility, and ability to adapt teaching approaches to individual learning needs.
Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
Commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and belonging, and ability to work effectively with people from varied backgrounds.
Willingness to learn, grow professionally, and contribute to a positive and inclusive workplace.
Ability to work a rotating schedule during center operating hours and maintain regular, predictable attendance.
Ability to observe and communicate effectively with children and families in varied settings, in person and occasionally by phone, and to complete computer-based documentation and administrative tasks.
Ability to perform early-childhood-education physical activities, including walking, sitting, bending, kneeling, crawling, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
Frequent grasping and pushing or pulling of equipment weighing up to 310 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Language skills in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, Dari, or Somali.

Responsibilities

Design and implement engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, and exploration.
Create an inclusive, child-centered classroom that supports each child's development, interests, and learning needs.
Build positive relationships with children and support their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
Observe and document children's progress, develop individualized learning plans within 90 days of enrollment, and maintain accurate, confidential records.
Complete developmental screenings within 45 days of enrollment, conduct follow-up screenings, and coordinate referrals when appropriate.
Oversee daily classroom operations and maintain an organized, safe, and engaging learning environment.
Collaborate with teaching staff to plan activities, prepare materials, and implement curriculum.
Model positive teaching practices and support classroom team members' professional growth and development.
Foster a collaborative team environment based on respect, creativity, communication, and shared accountability.
Build trusting, respectful relationships with families and communicate regularly about children's progress, strengths, and learning experiences.
Conduct four parent-teacher conferences annually for each child, including two home visits.
Partner with families to support their goals and children's transitions between programs and learning environments.
Collaborate with colleagues to plan and participate in family events, meetings, and engagement activities, including occasional required after-hours events.
Use interpretation services when needed to support communication with families.
Maintain a safe, healthy, and nurturing classroom; promote healthy habits and support mealtime activities in accordance with CACFP and family-style dining requirements.
Monitor indoor and outdoor environments for safety concerns and administer first aid when necessary.
Collaborate with mental health professionals, nurse consultants, and other team members to support children's individual needs.
Participate in professional development, staff meetings, required STARS training, and other learning opportunities.
Help recruit and support family and community volunteers.
Collaborate on enrollment and recruitment efforts to help families access Early Learning services.
Support classroom and center activities, including event preparation and cleanup.
Perform other related duties as assigned.