Toddler Lead Teacher
About The Position
The Toddler Lead Teacher creates a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment. Under the direction of the School Director, this classroom leader 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). The teacher models professionalism, complies with licensing and safety requirements, and partners with families and team members to support children’s growth and success. The role requires 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 occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.
Requirements
- Meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
- Meet applicable 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 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, unless state requirements are met through other qualifications.
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 required Cadence 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 standards in the Employee Handbook.
- Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development, which may occur outside regularly scheduled work hours.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation.
- 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
