Lead Preschool Teacher - Avondale

Gold-Rated Step Up to Quality | Full-Time | Cincinnati OH 45229 | Benefits Included

About Water Lily Learning Center

Water Lily Learning Center - Avondale is a Gold-rated Step Up to Quality program serving families in Cincinnati's Avondale neighborhood. Our preschool program is built on strong family relationships, cultural responsiveness, and a deep commitment to school readiness. We implement the Creative Curriculum and maintain high standards of care grounded in community connection and Gold-level quality.

Position Summary

The Lead Preschool Teacher - Avondale leads the preschool classroom at our Avondale campus, serving children ages 3 to 5. This role requires an experienced, credentialed educator who brings structure, warmth, and professionalism to a close-knit community setting. You will implement curriculum, conduct child assessments, mentor classroom staff, and engage Avondale families in line with DCY and Step Up to Quality Gold expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement Creative Curriculum lesson plans aligned with Ohio's 2024 Early Learning and Development Standards
• Create a consistent, safe, and developmentally supportive preschool learning environment for Avondale families
• Use DCY-approved assessment tools including Teaching Strategies GOLD to document progress and share results with families
• Build trusting family relationships through daily communication, goal-setting, and scheduled conferences
• Supervise and coach assistant teachers; foster a positive and productive Avondale classroom team
• Maintain full compliance with Ohio DCY licensing requirements and Step Up to Quality Gold standards
• Participate in ongoing training and apply current early childhood best practices to the Avondale preschool program
• Maintain all required classroom records, assessment documentation, and compliance files

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
• Minimum 3 years of lead teaching experience in a licensed early childhood program
• Current CPR and First Aid certification required prior to working with children
• Strong knowledge of preschool child development and age-appropriate instructional practices
• Excellent family engagement, communication, and team leadership skills
• Proficiency with technology platforms for attendance, documentation, and assessment
• Must meet all Ohio DCY employment eligibility requirements including applicable clearances

Schedule and Compensation

• Full-time, Monday through Friday
• $14-$17/hr based on experience and credentials
• Medical, dental, and retirement benefits included
• Paid professional development and training

Health and Wellness Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability
• Short-Term Disability
• NexGenEAP (Employee Assistance Program)
• Working Advantage (Employee Discount and Reward Program)
• Balance Care
• FinFit Financial Wellness
• Cancer Advocate
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Pay on Demand
• Staff Meetings: Monthly paid meetings
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO):
• Paid Professional Development
• Weekly Pay
• Employee Referral Program
• Plus More

Why Join Water Lily?

• Gold-rated Step Up to Quality program with deep community ties in Avondale
• Positive, stable culture where educators build lasting relationships with children and families
• Ongoing training and mentorship to support your growth as a lead teacher
• Work with leadership that values your voice, experience, and long-term goals
• Be part of a center deeply connected to the families and community it serves