Lead Preschool Teacher
Location: Learning Tree Child Care Center Annapolis, MD | Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role
We are seeking a nurturing, experienced Lead Preschool Teacher to plan and guide daily learning experiences for children ages 3–5. The Lead Teacher takes primary responsibility for the classroom, mentors assistant teachers, and creates a safe, engaging, developmentally appropriate environment that supports each child's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and implement daily lesson plans and activities aligned with early learning standards (e.g., Maryland's Early Learning Standards / school readiness framework)
- Supervise and actively engage with children at all times, maintaining required staff-to-child ratios
- Observe and document each child's development; complete progress reports and communicate with families
- Create a safe, clean, and welcoming classroom environment
- Mentor and direct the work of assistant teachers/aides assigned to the classroom
- Manage classroom behavior using positive guidance techniques
- Maintain required health, safety, and licensing documentation (attendance, incident reports, immunization records, etc.)
- Communicate regularly and professionally with parents/guardians regarding their child's progress
- Participate in staff meetings, center events, and required ongoing training
Required Qualifications
- Minimum age: 19 years old (per MSDE preschool teacher requirements)
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required
- Meets Maryland's child care teacher qualification standard
- At least 1 year of experience working with preschool-age children in a licensed child care center, nursery school, or similar approved setting (or equivalent college coursework, per COMAR)
- Completion of MSDE-required health and safety training within required timeframes
- Ability to pass Maryland Office of Child Care background check
- Ability to complete ongoing annual continuing education
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience as a Lead Teacher or in a classroom leadership role
- Experience with curriculum planning
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $19.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Experience:
- Infants: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- Infant & Toddler Certification (Required)
Work Location: In person
