Lead Teacher

First Learning•Buffalo, NY

11d•$18 - $21

About The Position

The Lead Teacher plans and implements developmentally appropriate programming for an assigned classroom, monitors each child’s development, and plans programming to maximize skill development. The role provides competent supervision and daily care for children and supports their self-esteem, independence, and well-being. The Lead Teacher communicates regularly with families, co-workers, and supervisors about children’s care and development, while maintaining confidentiality and recording relevant information. The position also provides leadership to assistant teachers and other co-workers, supports a cooperative team approach, and participates in staff meetings, program evaluations, and ongoing professional development.

Requirements

Minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or 12 credit hours in Early Childhood Education, with a plan to continue further education.
Additional ongoing professional and educational development is required.
Foundations in Health and Safety Certificate, or willingness to complete the training within the first week of hire.
At least 1 year of program experience.
Thorough knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood.
Working knowledge of the regulatory environment.
Current CPR, First Aid, and Medical Administration Training (MAT) certifications, or willingness to complete them within the first year of employment.
Physical and mental ability to provide daily routine care of children, supervise children by sight and sound, and react quickly to safety concerns in emergencies.
Strong leadership skills and ability to communicate effectively with parents, children, staff, and supervisors.
Flexibility to varied assignments, a positive attitude, and ability to integrate into a team working toward Generations’ mission and goals.

Responsibilities

Plan and implement developmentally appropriate programming for the assigned classroom.
Monitor each child’s development and plan programming to maximize skill development.
Provide competent supervision and daily care to children in the assigned classroom.
Use appropriate language and tone with children, promote self-esteem and self-help skills, and show warmth and affection.
Promote daily exchanges of information with families about children’s activities and progress, and accommodate family instructions for daily care routines when able.
Hold bi-annual parent-teacher conferences and be available for additional conferences as needed.
Maintain confidentiality when discussing matters relating to children.
Communicate with potential families during tours and provide information specific to the classroom.
Develop and maintain a cooperative team approach; participate in regular staff meetings and yearly program evaluation.
Offer leadership to assistant teachers and other co-workers throughout the center.
Participate in workshops and trainings, including the annual 30-hour training requirement, and pursue additional professional development as appropriate.
Stay current with Generations policies, OCFS regulations, National Accreditation guidelines, and other pertinent regulations, including CACFP and Health Department requirements.
Communicate daily in person with families, co-workers, and supervisors about the care and development of children.
Write correspondence and records to monitor development and document accidents, illnesses, medication administration, and other pertinent information.