Toddler/Preschool Lead Teacher

Next Generation Children's Center•Andover, MA

1d•$20 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

The 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, complies with licensing and safety requirements, and partners with families and team members to support children’s growth and success. The role includes building positive relationships and communicating with children’s families, recognizing and responding to diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, and documenting curriculum and classroom incidents. Schedules may vary according to enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs; eight-hour shifts and daily end times are not guaranteed. 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.
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.
Be able to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings.

Nice To Haves

An 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.
A CDA credential, unless state requirements are otherwise 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.
Accurately document and report accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors according to 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 based on education and experience; hourly pay rate of $20–$26.
On-demand pay through UKG Wallet.
75% 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.