Preschool Lead Teacher

Especially for Children•Inver Grove Heights, MN

8d•$17 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

The Preschool Lead Teacher creates a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment. Under the direction of the School Director, the role leads classroom operations, plans and delivers curriculum, implements Cadence Education programs, and supports children’s physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs, including children with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The Lead Teacher models professionalism, follows licensing and safety requirements, and works with families and team members to support children’s growth and success. The schedule may vary based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs. Shifts are not guaranteed to be eight hours, and daily end times may vary. Required training, meetings, and professional development may occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.

Requirements

Meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
Meet Department of Health Services (DHS) licensing qualifications, which may include a high school diploma or GED plus required experience, college coursework in early childhood education, or a CDA, CCP, EEC, or NAC credential.
Demonstrate the ability to follow safety procedures, including Name-to-Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle-feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
Ability to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
A minimum of 6–12 months of early childhood or classroom experience, depending on education and credentials.
CDA credential.

Responsibilities

Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom where every child is treated with dignity, respect, and care.
Build positive, professional relationships with children and families through daily greetings and ongoing communication.
Recognize and respond to diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, including implementing IEPs and behavioral support plans as required.
Plan, implement, and document developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Cadence’s educational philosophy and Signature Programs.
Use Cadence-required systems and communication tools to communicate professionally with families, coworkers, and leadership.
Maintain a safe, well-supervised classroom and follow the Cadence Education Safety and Supervision Manual.
Accurately document and report accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors in accordance with company policy and licensing requirements.
Follow Cadence Education policies, procedures, and standards in the Employee Handbook.
Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development, which may occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.