Toddler Lead Teacher

Especially for Children•Edina, MN

3d•$17 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

The Toddler Lead Teacher, under the direction of the School Director, creates a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children. 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 those with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Lead Teachers model professionalism, ensure compliance with licensing and safety requirements, and work with families and team members to support each child’s growth and success. The position is based in Edina, Minnesota. Schedules may vary based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs; they are not guaranteed to be eight-hour shifts, and daily end times are not guaranteed. Required trainings, meetings, and professional development may occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.

Requirements

Meet state licensing requirements and all Department of Health Services (DHS) qualifications for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
Qualifying DHS credentials 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.
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.
Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
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 environment where each 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 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.

Benefits

Sign-on bonus of $750 for candidates with a degree in Early Childhood Education or $500 for teacher-qualified candidates with a qualifying degree, paid after 90 days of successful employment; offer applies to this full-time position only.
Competitive compensation of $17–$22.10 per hour.
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.