Preschool Lead Teacher

Lead Teacher & Early Childhood Innovator

Location: DeForest, WI (In-home pilot site with growth potential)

About Us

Hygge Academy is the pilot location for Hygge Collective, a startup reimagining early childhood education in the U.S. Inspired by the Scandinavian philosophy of hygge — coziness, connection, and well-being — we’re building a model of childcare that prioritizes play, creativity, sustainability, and community. Our vision goes beyond one classroom: we’re creating a scalable childcare solution that will expand into neighborhood hubs, coworking + childcare spaces, and an online marketplace for families.

We are seeking a Lead Teacher who not only loves working with children but also shares our passion for changing the childcare industry. This role starts in the classroom but is designed to grow into a key business role within Hygge Collective.

What You’ll Do

In the Classroom (Lead Teacher):

• Create a warm, playful, and nurturing environment for children ages 6 months–5 years.
• Develop and lead activities rooted in play-based learning and inspired by the Scandinavian approach to early childhood education.
• Communicate with families daily, providing updates on children’s growth, needs, and accomplishments.
• Send weekly summary of activities to parents with photos taken throughout the week.
• Ensure the classroom environment is safe for kids of varying ages.

Beyond the Classroom (Growth Role):

• Contribute ideas and feedback to expand the Hygge Academy model into other communities.
• Assist with developing content for social media that showcases our philosophy, classroom life, and startup journey.
• Support the operation of our online store featuring, child-centered products.
• Collaborate with the founder on projects to refine our curriculum, build partnerships, and grow our impact.

Who You Are

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
• Licensed/credentialed to work as a Lead Teacher in Wisconsin (or willing to complete licensing steps).
• Passionate about reimagining childcare in the U.S. and curious about Scandinavian educational philosophies.
• Energetic, playful, and able to engage children with joy and creativity.
• Motivated to grow beyond the classroom into a startup/business role.
• Strong communicator who enjoys working with both kids and adults.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a groundbreaking pilot that is shaping a new childcare model.
• Opportunity to grow into a leadership/business role as Hygge Collective expands.
• A creative, collaborative environment where your voice and ideas matter.
• Competitive pay for childcare + additional opportunities as business responsibilities expand.
• Chance to be part of something bigger: creating sustainable, joyful childhood experiences and stronger communities.

How to Apply

Send your resume and a short note about why you’re passionate about early childhood education and excited about the startup world to katie@hygge.academy.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• DeForest, WI 53532 (Required)

Work Location: In person