Preschool Lead/Assistant Teacher

the Lead Teacher & Extended Care Teacher - the little school at Kids Cottage | Dover, DE

Position Overview

the little school at Kids Cottage is seeking a dedicated, professional, and passionate Lead Teacher & Extended Care Teacher to join our school family. This position is ideal for an educator who values relationship-based teaching, developmentally appropriate practice, and meaningful partnerships with families.

Our Lead Teachers play a critical role in creating engaging learning environments that foster children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Successful candidates will be collaborative professionals who are committed to continuous growth and excellence in early childhood education.

About the little school at Kids Cottage

At the little school at Kids Cottage, we believe children learn best through meaningful experiences, purposeful play, strong relationships, and a supportive learning community. We are committed to providing high-quality early childhood education while creating a welcoming environment where children, families, and staff feel valued, supported, and connected.

Essential Responsibilities

Curriculum & Classroom Leadership

• Establish and maintain a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment.
• Plan, organize, and implement engaging lessons aligned with Creative Curriculum and school expectations.
• Observe, assess, and document children's growth and development.
• Utilize children's interests and developmental needs to guide curriculum planning.
• Promote social-emotional development through positive interactions and effective classroom management.
• Apply developmentally appropriate practices in all aspects of teaching and learning.
• Maintain an organized, engaging, and inviting classroom environment.

Family Engagement

• Build and maintain positive, respectful relationships with children and their families.
• Communicate effectively regarding student progress, classroom activities, and school initiatives.
• Encourage family participation in the classroom and school community.
• Demonstrate professionalism, cultural competence, and respect for diverse family backgrounds.

School Family Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with assistant teachers, extended care staff, administrators, and members of our school family.
• Serve as a positive role model and mentor for classroom staff.
• Contribute to a culture of professionalism, accountability, and mutual respect.
• Address challenges and conflicts constructively and professionally.
• Participate actively in staff meetings, training sessions, and school-wide initiatives.
• Foster positive relationships that strengthen our school family and support a shared commitment to children and families.

Extended Care Responsibilities

• Safely transition children between classroom and extended care settings.
• Provide supervision and engaging activities during extended care hours.
• Maintain a safe, positive, and developmentally appropriate environment throughout the day.

Qualifications

Preferred candidates will possess:

• Experience working with young children in an early childhood education setting.
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• The ability to collaborate effectively within a school family environment.
• A commitment to relationship-based teaching and family engagement.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification.

Professional Expectations

• Submit weekly lesson plans through the Creative Curriculum platform.
• Arrive prepared and on time for all scheduled shifts.
• Demonstrate flexibility and professionalism in responding to the needs of the school.
• Complete a minimum of 18 hours of professional development annually.
• Maintain all required certifications and licensing requirements.
• Attend all required meetings, training sessions, and school events, including Family Orientation, Parent Visitations, the Art Show, Holiday Programs, and other community events.

Why Join Our School Family?

At the little school at Kids Cottage, we believe exceptional schools are built on strong relationships. We are proud of the close-knit school family we have created and are seeking educators who share our commitment to collaboration, professionalism, and meaningful connections.

Our teachers are supported by engaged leadership, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a culture that values both personal and professional growth. We celebrate creativity, encourage innovation, and recognize the important role educators play in shaping children's earliest learning experiences.

If you are passionate about early childhood education and are looking for a school family where your contributions are valued, we encourage you to apply.

Join our school family and help create meaningful learning experiences that will have a lasting impact on children and families for years to come.

Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person