Preschool Teacher

Preschool Lead Teacher

The Growing Patch Academy – Aiea, HI
Full-Time | Monday–Friday
Pay: $19–$22 per hour (DOE)

About The Growing Patch Academy

The Growing Patch Academy is a warm, family-centered early learning school committed to high-quality education, strong leadership, and meaningful relationships with children and families. We believe classrooms should be structured, nurturing, and led by confident educators who take pride in their work.

We are seeking a Preschool Lead Teacher who is ready to fully lead and manage a classroom with professionalism, initiative, and heart.

This is not an assistant role. This is a leadership position.

Position Overview

The Preschool Lead Teacher is responsible for the overall management, organization, and daily leadership of a preschool classroom. This includes curriculum implementation, child development oversight, classroom structure, parent communication, and mentoring support staff.

We are looking for someone who:

• Naturally takes initiative
• Maintains a calm and structured classroom environment
• Communicates confidently with families
• Understands licensing compliance and documentation
• Leads by example and supports their team

Key ResponsibilitiesClassroom Leadership

• Lead daily classroom routines and transitions
• Implement developmentally appropriate curriculum
• Maintain a structured, engaging, and safe learning environment
• Manage classroom organization and materials

Child Development & Documentation

• Conduct developmental observations and assessments
• Maintain accurate child records and required documentation
• Ensure classroom compliance with DHS licensing standards

Team Leadership

• Guide and support assistant teachers
• Model professionalism and accountability
• Communicate effectively with administration

Family Communication

• Build strong relationships with parents
• Provide regular updates on child progress
• Address concerns professionally and proactively

Qualifications

Must meet DHS Preschool Lead Teacher requirements.

Minimum requirements include one of the following:

Option 1:
Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field

• 12 approved ECE/CD credits
• Relevant classroom experience in a licensed setting

OR Option 2:
CDA credential

• 12 approved ECE/CD credits
• Required experience in a licensed group care setting

OR Option 3:
Minimum 60 college credits (preferably ECE/CD)

• 12 approved ECE/CD credits
• Required experience in a licensed group care setting

Additional Requirements:

• CPR & First Aid Certification
• Minimum age 18
• 2+ years classroom experience preferred

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds (40 pounds in emergency situations)
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, and active engagement with children
• Ability to meet the physical demands of an early childhood classroom

Benefits

• 401(k) with matching
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development support
• Consistent Monday–Friday schedule

Why Join Us?

At The Growing Patch Academy, we value leadership, accountability, warmth, and growth. We are building a team of educators who take pride in their classrooms and want to grow within a supportive, high-standard environment.

If you are ready to lead a preschool classroom with confidence and care, we would love to meet you.

Apply today.

Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

• Do you have any ECE Academic Credits?
• Are you registered with Patch, if so is it current?

License/Certification:

• Child Development Associate Certification (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• ‘Aiea, HI 96701: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person