Lead Teacher – NYC DOE 3K & Pre-K for All FHJC Early Childhood Center Forest Hills, Queens

Lead Teacher – NYC DOE 3K & Pre-K for All FHJC Early Childhood Center Forest Hills, Queens

FHJC Early Childhood Center, a warm and nurturing Reggio-inspired preschool, is seeking an experienced, passionate, and reflective educator to join our team as a Lead Teacher in our NYC DOE 3K for All and Pre-K for All classrooms.

At FHJC, we believe children are capable, curious, and competent learners. Our classrooms foster creativity, independence, problem-solving, and meaningful relationships through active, hands-on exploration. We value both social-emotional development and academic growth while creating an environment where children feel safe, respected, and inspired to learn.

Qualifications

• New York State Initial or Professional Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2) required, OR active study plan toward certification (candidates on a study plan must commit to obtaining NYS certification within 3–5 years and provide proof of enrollment and academic standing)
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (Bachelor's minimum required; Master's preferred)
• Experience with Creative Curriculum and authentic assessment systems (Teaching Strategies GOLD preferred)
• Knowledge of NYC DOE standards and early childhood best practices
• Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills
• Commitment to reflective practice and ongoing professional growth
• Must meet all NYC DOE, NYC DOH Article 47, NYS fingerprinting, and background clearance requirements

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain a warm, engaging, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment
• Plan and implement inquiry-based, play-centered curriculum aligned with Creative Curriculum and DOE standards
• Support children's cognitive, language, social-emotional, physical, and creative development
• Observe, document, and assess children's progress throughout the school year
• Maintain portfolios, assessment records, and required DOE documentation
• Build strong partnerships with families through regular communication
• Collaborate with assistant teachers, specialists, therapists, and administration
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and required DOE trainings
• Ensure the safety, well-being, and inclusion of every child

Position Details

• Full-time, Monday through Friday
• Competitive salary based on experience and certification
• Excellent professional development opportunities

If you are an educator who believes in the power of play, relationships, and meaningful learning, we invite you to join our dedicated community.

Forest Hills Jewish Center Early Childhood Program is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Pay: $62,902.00 - $70,711.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off

Application Question(s):

• Please describe your current certification status. Do you hold a NYS Early Childhood Teaching Certificate (Birth–Grade 2), and if not, are you actively working toward one? Please include your highest level of education completed.

Work Location: In person