NC Pre-K Lead Teacher Job Description
Position Summary
The NC Pre-K Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising a high-quality preschool classroom in compliance with North Carolina Pre-K Program Requirements, NC Child Care Licensing Rules, and all applicable federal and state regulations. The Lead Teacher ensures that classroom instruction supports school readiness and promotes the cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development of enrolled children.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with NC Pre-K standards and approved curriculum.
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Maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that supports positive child development.
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Conduct ongoing child assessments and maintain accurate documentation of developmental progress.
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Participate in required NC Pre-K reporting, data collection, and compliance monitoring.
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Maintain classroom records in accordance with NC Pre-K and licensing requirements.
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Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and classroom support staff.
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Maintain required child-to-staff ratios at all times.
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Conduct parent conferences and maintain regular communication with families.
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Participate in professional development and required NC Pre-K training.
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Ensure compliance with health, safety, sanitation, and emergency procedures.
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- Collaborate with administration and support staff to ensure program quality and compliance.
Qualifications
- Valid North Carolina Birth-Kindergarten (B-K) Teaching License or
Meets NC Pre-K Lead Teacher education requirements and enrolled in the NC Early Educator Support, Licensure and Professional Development (EESLPD) Unit.
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Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
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Experience working with pre-kindergarten age children.
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Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
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Satisfactory criminal background check and health screening as required by law.
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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of early childhood development and best practices.
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Ability to implement research-based curriculum with fidelity.
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Strong classroom management skills.
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Effective written and verbal communication skills.
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Ability to maintain confidentiality.
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- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and engage in physical activity required in early childhood settings.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a classroom environment requiring frequent standing, bending, lifting a minimum of 50 pounds, and active supervision of young children. Outdoor supervision is required daily.
