Preschool Lead Teacher

Lead Teacher – Job Description

About Little Ones Child Care Center

Little Ones Child Care Center is a warm, structured, and developmentally rich Spanish Immersion early childhood program serving children ages 6 weeks–5years. Children learn through exploration, connection, and play while being immersed in the Spanish language throughout daily routines, activities, and interactions. Our mission is to offer high‑quality early childhood education rooted in safety, professionalism, bilingual learning, and deep respect for every child and family we serve

Position Title: Lead Teacher

Reports To: Center Director Employment Type: Full Time, On Site Location: Annapolis, Maryland

Position Summary

The Lead Teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing a developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of children ages 6 weeks to 5½ years. This role ensures compliance with Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Office of Child Care regulations, maintains a safe and nurturing classroom environment, and provides leadership, guidance, and mentorship to Teacher Assistants. The Lead Teacher plays a key role in building strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum & Instruction

• Plan and implement daily lesson plans aligned with developmentally appropriate practices and center philosophy.
• Create engaging learning centers and hands‑on activities that promote exploration and growth.
• Observe, document, and assess children’s development to inform instruction and communicate progress.
• Adapt curriculum to meet the needs of individual children, including those with diverse learning styles.
• Maintain a structured, predictable classroom routine that supports learning and emotional security.

Classroom Environment & Safety

• Ensure the classroom is safe, clean, organized, and visually inviting.
• Maintain active supervision and ensure ratio compliance at all times.
• Follow all COMAR 13A.16 health, safety, and emergency procedures.
• Oversee diapering, toileting, and personal care routines in accordance with MSDE guidelines.
• Model and reinforce positive behavior guidance strategies.

Family Engagement

• Build warm, professional, and trusting relationships with families.
• Provide daily communication regarding children’s experiences, routines, and progress.
• Conduct parent‑teacher conferences and support family questions or concerns.
• Represent Little Ones with professionalism and care during tours, events, and meetings.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide direction, mentorship, and support to Teacher Assistants.
• Delegate classroom tasks and ensure smooth daily operations.
• Collaborate with colleagues to maintain a positive, respectful, and team‑oriented culture.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
• Uphold center policies, procedures, and expectations consistently.

Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, developmental assessments, and required records.
• Ensure compliance with MSDE/OCC regulations and center standards.
• Complete required trainings: CPR/First Aid, Basic Health & Safety, 9‑Hour Communication, ADA, SIDS, and continuing education.
• Support Maryland EXCELS quality initiatives as needed.

Qualifications (per MSDE/OCC requirements)

• 90‑Hour Preschool Certification or
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
• 45‑Hour Infant/Toddler Certification (required for infant/toddler classrooms).
• CPR/First Aid, Basic Health & Safety, and 9‑Hour Communication Course.
• Must pass background check and medical clearance.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and actively participate in classroom activities.
• Experience as a Lead Teacher in a licensed child care center.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
• Experience with lesson planning and child assessments.
• Knowledge of Maryland EXCELS and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay based on experience and education
• Professional development and MSDE training support
• Supportive, family‑like work environment
• Paid time off and holidays
• Staff childcare discount
• 401k through Maryland Saves

If you’re a dedicated, nurturing educator who is passionate about early childhood development — we’d love to welcome you to our team!

Apply Email resume to admin@littleonesannapolis.com Subject: Preschool Lead Teacher – Little Ones

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person