Join the Plato Academy Early Learning Team!
Plato Academy is seeking a passionate, nurturing, and experienced Early Learning Teacher Lead to join our growing early childhood education program. The ideal candidate is committed to creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment where young learners can thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.
The Early Learning Teacher Lead is responsible for the overall management of the preschool classroom, including curriculum planning and implementation, classroom supervision, staff support, and maintaining compliance with all Florida licensing and early learning requirements. This leadership role plays a critical part in fostering positive relationships with children, families, and staff while ensuring high-quality early childhood instruction and care.
Key Responsibilities
- Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging preschool classroom environment
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and learning activities
- Support children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development
- Supervise classroom staff and promote positive team collaboration
- Maintain compliance with DCF/PCLB and Florida early learning standards
- Build strong communication and partnerships with families
- Maintain accurate classroom documentation and records
- Support school readiness and kindergarten preparation initiatives
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must meet ONE of the following qualifications:
- Child Development Associate (CDA) or Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC)
- Associate’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or related field
- Associate’s degree in an unrelated field with 6 credit hours in Early Childhood Education and 480 hours of experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
Required Certifications & Training
- 40-hour DCF/PCLB Introductory Training (within required timeframe)
- 5-hour Early Literacy Training
- CPR/First Aid Certification
- Level 2 Background Screening (fingerprinting)
- Completion of ongoing annual in-service training requirements
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
- Experience with VPK and/or School Readiness programs
- Knowledge of Conscious Discipline, Creative Curriculum, or similar early childhood frameworks
- Strong understanding of early childhood development and instructional practices
- Effective classroom management and curriculum planning skills
- Leadership and team supervision experience
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to maintain a safe, compliant, and positive learning environment
- Florida Staff Credential preferred
- Minimum of 1–2 years of experience working with preschool-aged children
Pay: $19.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Life insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
