Preschool/Pre-K Lead Teacher

Cadence Academy Preschool•Ashland, MA

5d•$20 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

The Preschool/Pre-K Lead Teacher works under the direction of the School Director to create a safe, engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environment. The role plans and delivers curriculum, leads classroom operations, implements Cadence Education programs, and supports children’s physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs, including children with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Lead Teachers model professionalism, follow licensing and safety requirements, and partner with families and team members to support each child’s growth and success. The position requires schedule flexibility: schedules may change based on 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

Meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
Meet all Department of Health Services (DHS) licensing qualifications for Lead Teachers, 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.
Be able to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings.
Demonstrate the ability to follow safety procedures, including Name-to-Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle-feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
Be able to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
Have strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

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 outlined in the Employee Handbook.
Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development, which may occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.