Preschool Teacher

This is not a job for everyone.

If you want predictable, comfortable, and low-accountability — this isn’t it.

If you want to grow, lead, regulate yourself under pressure, and do the work that changes generations — keep reading.

Dot To Dot is a Reggio-inspired, inquiry-based preschool serving children 18 months–5 years in San Diego (Rancho Bernardo 92128 + Carmel Valley 92130).

We exist to protect children’s presence and give families peace of mind.

When you walk into our schools, you feel:

Calm. Warmth. Beauty. Intention.

Standards + love.

Truth spoken kindly.

Growth expected.

Who You Must Be

Before what you know, we care about who you are.

You are:

• Emotionally resilient
• Accountable (not defensive)
• Open to feedback
• Deeply loving but grounded
• Hungry to grow
• Able to regulate yourself when things get hard

We believe educators are the template for emotional regulation in children.

If you are unwilling to work on yourself, this will not feel aligned.

If you are committed to growth — we will invest in you deeply.

Our Learning Philosophy

Reggio-inspired. Inquiry-based. Emergent curriculum.

Children are capable researchers.

We protect thinking.

We document learning.

We co-construct knowledge.

You’ll design meaningful projects, collaborate weekly, and build emotionally safe classrooms that are alive with curiosity.

Responsibilities

• Lead classroom (18 months–5 years)
• Implement inquiry-based curriculum
• Practice positive discipline & co-regulation
• Observe & document learning
• Communicate warmly + professionally with families
• Maintain ratios & licensing standards
• Collaborate weekly with leadership & pedagogy team

Qualifications

Required:

• BA in ECE/Child Development or related field
• 12+ ECE units (CA licensing)
• 5+ years preschool experience

Preferred:

• Reggio or inquiry-based experience
• Strong classroom leadership
• Documentation/project work background

Compensation & Benefits

• $24–$30/hour DOE
• Health / Dental / Vision
• 401K
• Paid Professional Development
• Leadership coaching
• Mind/Body membership
• Daily meals provided
• Small ratios + prep time

The Filter

If this excites you and stretches you — apply.

If accountability, growth, and standards feel overwhelming — this won’t be your place.

We are building something rare.

We protect our culture.

Submit resume + short cover letter:

“Why does early childhood matter to you — and how have you grown in the last two years?”

Pay: $24.00 - $32.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person