Preschool Lead 2's Teacher

Merritt Academy • Fairfax, VA

1d

About The Position

At Merritt Academy, we believe the toddler years are full of wonder—first friendships, first discoveries, first “I did it!” moments. We are looking for a Lead 2’s Teacher who delights in this stage of development and finds joy in guiding children as they learn, grow, and explore the world around them. If you love tiny humans with big personalities, believe learning should feel safe and joyful, and thrive in a warm, collaborative school community, this role may be for you.

Two-year-olds are busy, curious, and full of possibility—and you’ll be right there with them. As the Lead 2’s Teacher, you will design and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based lessons that support early academics, social-emotional growth, and Merritt Academy’s values-based curriculum. The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a loving, safe, and predictable classroom environment where children feel secure and confident to explore while also observing, assessing and documenting each child’s growth. The Lead Teacher is responsible for leading daily classroom routines including transitions, supervision, preparation of materials, and maintaining a clean, organized space while collaborating with your teaching team. The Lead Teacher is also responsible for building strong, trusting partnerships with parents, serving as a resource and celebrating milestones together.
Our teachers are more than educators—they are guides, role models, and partners in each child’s early journey. We value enthusiasm, warmth, and a genuine love of learning, respect for each child’s unique pace and personality and strong relationships between teachers, families, and students.
Who Thrives Here
Educators who find joy in songs, stories, messy art, and teachable moments
Teachers who understand that learning at age two happens through play, routine, and relationships
Professionals who want to make a lasting impact during a foundational stage of development
If you’re passionate about early childhood education and believe the smallest learners deserve the biggest hearts, we’d love to meet you.

Requirements

• High School diploma required with an AA in Early Childhood Education, or related field, Child Development Associate (CDA) (or at least 12 college credits in Education)
• Experience working in education, early childhood experience is required
• A love for children and a strong desire to make a difference every day.
• Must be physically able to lift and carry a minimum of 45 pounds, engage in physical activity with children, and work indoors or outdoors.
• Must be able to constantly move and interact with the children to provide stimulation and develop relationships.
• Must be able to alternate often between sitting and standing.
• Must be able to maintain sight and sound of the children at all times.
• CPR and First Aid certified or willingness to obtain.
• Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Pass pre-employment screenings and trainings as required.
• exhibit professionalism, pride in work, initiative, a strong work ethic and who support parents as partners in education.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelors degree preferred

Responsibilities

• design and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based lessons that support early academics, social-emotional growth, and Merritt Academy’s values-based curriculum
• creating a loving, safe, and predictable classroom environment where children feel secure and confident to explore while also observing, assessing and documenting each child’s growth
• leading daily classroom routines including transitions, supervision, preparation of materials, and maintaining a clean, organized space while collaborating with your teaching team
• building strong, trusting partnerships with parents, serving as a resource and celebrating milestones together

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Health, dental and vision insurance options for eligible employees
• Vacation and sick leave
• Retirement plan with employer matching
• Discounted tuition rate for child(ren) or grandchild(ren) attending any J127 Education Foundation school
• tuition reimbursement program
• professional development training opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree