Preschool Lead Teacher

The Professor's Learning Center•Chicago Precinct, NE
•$17 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The Preschool Lead Teacher creates a safe, engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children. Under the direction of the School Director, the role plans and delivers curriculum, leads classroom operations, and implements Cadence Education programs while supporting 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 partners with families and team members to support each child’s growth and success. The position is based in Elkhorn, Nebraska. Schedules may vary according to enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs; shifts are not guaranteed to be eight hours, and daily end times may vary. Required trainings, meetings, and professional development may take place outside regularly scheduled work hours.

Requirements

  • Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
  • Must meet applicable 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.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings.
  • 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.

Nice To Haves

  • An associate or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.
  • A minimum of 6–12 months of early childhood or classroom experience is preferred, depending on education and credentials.
  • CDA is preferred, but not required if state requirements are met.

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.
  • Document and report accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors in accordance with company policy and licensing requirements.
  • Follow Cadence Education policies, procedures, and Employee Handbook standards.
  • Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development, which may occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation; hourly pay range of $16.50–$21.45.
  • On-demand pay through UKG Wallet.
  • 50% childcare tuition discount.
  • 401(k) with employer match.
  • Paid time off that increases with seniority.
  • Paid holidays.
  • Medical, dental, and vision options.
  • Additional life, disability, and retirement plans.
  • Educational and professional development.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Company-paid life insurance.
  • Pet insurance.
  • Paid CDA.
  • Comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees.
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