Classroom Teacher

Position Title: Lead Preschool Teacher
Hourly Pay: $20.37–$23.32 (based on education and experience)
Schedule: Full-Time, School-Year (August–June)
Work Setting: On-site classroom environment

Compensation & Pay Structure

• Level 1: $20.37/hr — Associate’s degree + 3 years of early childhood classroom experience
• Level 2: $23.32/hr — Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or comparable coursework
• Hiring Incentive: $1,000 bonus following 90 days of employment and a positive performance review

Benefits

• Medical insurance available beginning the first of the month after 30 days of employment
• Immediate eligibility for a 403(b) plan with up to 7% employer match
• Paid time off including:
• Accrued sick leave
• 3 personal days
• 17 paid holidays, including a birthday holiday
• Tuition assistance for qualifying degree programs
• Ongoing professional learning opportunities
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Discounts on select cellphone plans (up to 18%)

Position Overview

The Lead Preschool Teacher serves as the primary instructional leader for a classroom of children ages 3–5. This role is responsible for daily classroom operations, implementation of a high-quality early learning curriculum that aligns with Head Start requirements, and supervision of classroom support staff. The teacher fosters a nurturing, inclusive environment and partners closely with families to support school readiness goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deliver a developmentally appropriate curriculum (e.g., Creative Curriculum) addressing all early learning domains
• Develop weekly lesson plans that reflect individual learning goals, cultural responsiveness, and language needs
• Guide daily classroom routines while ensuring children’s safety and compliance with licensing and Head Start standards
• Mentor and support classroom assistants and other instructional staff
• Conduct developmental and behavioral screenings and work with families to identify individual learning needs
• Collect, track, and analyze assessment data three times per year to adjust instruction
• Maintain documentation and records in COPA or similar data systems
• Hold two home visits and two parent–teacher conferences annually
• Collaborate with families to set goals and support learning at home
• Coordinate kindergarten transition activities with local school districts
• Maintain a clean, well-organized, and welcoming classroom environment
• Assist with recruitment, enrollment, and outreach activities
• Partner with Special Services staff to support children with disabilities or developmental concerns
• Provide active supervision during all classroom routines and activities
• Maintain confidentiality and follow mandated reporter guidelines
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions
• Perform additional duties as assigned by program leadership

Required Qualifications

Level 1 (Minimum):

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, or
• Associate/Bachelor’s degree in another field plus 15 ECE credits or valid CDA
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience working with children birth–5

Level 2 (Preferred):

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in ECE or a related field with aligned coursework
• Experience with preschool-aged children
• State early childhood teaching certification a plus

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain
• Basic computer literacy, including email, data entry, and Google Workspace

Skills & Attributes

• Strong understanding of early childhood development
• Effective classroom management and lesson planning abilities
• Ability to work with diverse families and collaborate with colleagues
• Experience supporting multilingual learners and children with special needs
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards and state early learning guidelines

Work Environment

• Active classroom setting with frequent bending, kneeling, and floor activities
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs
• Possible exposure to illness and shared classroom materials
• Occasional local travel for home visits or professional development

Equal Opportunity Statement

ACE is committed to maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. Employment decisions are based on qualifications and organizational needs. Reasonable accommodations are available in accordance with the ADAAA. ACE operates as a Drug-Free Workplace and prioritizes a Culture of Safety.

Job Type: Full-time
Benefits include:
401(k) & employer match, health/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, paid time off, and more.
Work Location: In person

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.37 - $23.32 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person