Toddler Lead Teacher

Special Beginnings Early Learning Center•Overland Park, KS

19d•$17 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The Toddler Lead Teacher, under the direction of the School Director, leads a classroom and creates a safe, engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment. The role involves planning and delivering curriculum, leading classroom operations, implementing Cadence Education programs, and supporting children’s physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs, including children with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The Lead Teacher models professionalism, maintains compliance with licensing and safety requirements, and works with families and team members to support each child’s growth and success. Schedules may vary based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs; they are not guaranteed to be eight-hour shifts, and daily end times may vary. Required trainings, 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 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 according to 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.