Westminster Nursery School is seeking a passionate and experienced Pre-K Lead Teacher. The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and assessing a high-quality early childhood education program aligned with Pennsylvania Department of Education (PA DOE) standards. The Lead Teacher creates a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports the cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language development of Pre-K children.
Key Responsibilities
Instruction & Curriculum
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with the Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards for Pre-Kindergarten
- Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including English learners and children with individualized education plans (IEPs)
- Integrate play-based learning, STEAM concepts, literacy, and social-emotional learning
Assessment & Documentation
- Conduct ongoing child observations and assessments using approved tools
- Maintain accurate records of children’s progress and development
- Use assessment data to inform instruction and individualized learning plans
Classroom Environment
- Establish and maintain a safe, healthy, and inclusive learning environment
- Ensure classroom arrangement supports active learning, exploration, and independence
- Implement positive behavior supports and classroom management strategies
- Follow all licensing, health, and safety regulations
Family Engagement
- Build strong partnerships with families through regular communication and conferences
- Support family involvement in the program and child learning
- Provide families with updates on progress and development
- Connect families with community resources, as needed
Leadership & Collaboration
- Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and/or classroom aides
- Collaborate with program leadership, support staff, and specialists
- Participate in staff meetings, professional learning communities, and program planning
Compliance & Professional Responsibilities
- Maintain compliance with PA Department of Education, OCDEL, and licensing regulations
- Participate in ongoing professional development (minimum 12 hours)
- Maintain required clearances and certifications
- Uphold ethical standards and confidentiality
Qualifications
- At a minimum, BA Degree with 24 units in Child Development or Early Childhood Education including core courses in Child/Human Growth and Development; Child, Family and Community, and Program/Curriculum; or a related field.
- Valid Pennsylvania Instructional Certificate (PK–4) or PA Private Academic Teaching License
- 2 years of experience teaching preschool or pre-kindergarten
- Knowledge of PA Early Learning Standards and early childhood best practices
Required Clearances
- PA Criminal History Clearance
- FBI Fingerprinting
- PA Child Abuse Clearance
- National Sex Offender Registry verification
- Mandated Reporter Training certification
Core Competencies
- Strong classroom management and instructional skills
- Understanding of child development (ages 2–5)
- Excellent communication and family engagement skills
- Ability to make decisions on behalf of children and protect their well being
- Organizational skills and attention to detail for compliance
- Ability to maintain an overall positive and professional attitude
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds and in case of emergency a 40 pound child
- Frequent standing, sitting on the floor, and movement
- Indoor and outdoor supervision of children
- Able to walk for local field trips
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (based on experience and credentials)
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive team environment
- Opportunity to make a lasting impact on young learners
Pay: From $21.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
Education:
Experience:
- Early childhood education: 2 years (Required)
License/Certification:
- PA Teaching License (PK-4) or Private Academic License (Required)
Work Location: In person
