Early Childhood Lead Educator

Discovery Children's Center; St. Louis (MO); Presencial; USD 25.000 - 28.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive pay

Cost-of-living raises

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Childcare discount (80%)

Paid time off

Professional development assistance

Parental leave

Descripción de la vacante

Discovery Children’s Center in St. Louis, MO is seeking a Lead Teacher (Full-Time) to co-lead a classroom of young children with a play-based, child-led approach.

You’ll collaborate with fellow teachers and families to foster development, curiosity, and authentic connections, rooted in Trust, collaboration and joy. The role requires at least 2 years in early childhood education, a bachelor’s in a related field (preferred), and the ability to support a co-teaching model while maintaining a safe,

Formación

• At least 2 years of experience in early childhood education.
• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or related field (preferred).
• Familiarity with constructivist models (e.g., Project Construct, Reggio Emilia).
• Warm, professional demeanor with a passion for nurturing children.
• Flexible, responsive to classroom dynamics and team needs.
• Strong communication with children, peers, and families.
• Ability to obtain background checks (Family Care Safety Registry and fingerprinting).
• Physical ability to engage with young children and lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsabilidades

• Co-lead a classroom using a constructivist, play-based philosophy.
• Plan and implement emergent curriculum based on children's interests and milestones.
• Observe and document growth through assessments and reflections.
• Communicate regularly with families to build collaboration.
• Foster a culture of co-learning and mutual respect among staff.
• Maintain a safe, organized learning environment appropriate for development.
• Mentor or support assistant teachers and contribute to team development.
• Collaborate closely with your co-teacher to adapt plans as needed.
• Participate in regular team meetings focused on problem-solving.

Conocimientos

Communication

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Observation & assessment

Educación

Bachelor's in Early Childhood or related

Descripción del empleo

Are you a thoughtful, nurturing educator who believes in the power of early childhood experiences? At Discovery Children's Center, we believe that care and mutual respect aren't just for children-they define how we work together. We're a nonprofit center offering full benefits, competitive pay and a workplace rooted in trust, collaboration and joy.

About Discovery Children's Center

DCC has been part of the Dogtown neighborhood for over 40 years. We're a nonprofit early childhood center rooted in care, mutual respect, and a play-based, child-led approach to learning. But what truly defines DCC is our community-where children and adults grow alongside each other in a culture of honesty, curiosity and connection.

We value the importance of building strong relationships, promoting a sense of belonging, and celebrating the unique qualities of each child and each staff member. Our team is made up of dedicated professionals who support one another, co-learn with children, and share a passion for making a lasting impact in young lives. This is a place where your presence matters and where the work you do every day genuinely makes a difference.

About the Role: Lead Teacher (Full-Time)

We're seeking a passionate, experienced early childhood educator to co-lead a classroom of young children through curiosity-driven learning, creative exploration and authentic connection. You'll collaborate closely with fellow teachers and families to create a dynamic, inclusive classroom rooted in developmental best practices and Discovery's core values.

Location: St. Louis, MO 63139 (Dogtown)
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8-hour shifts
Start Date: Flexible, depending on availability

What You'll Do

• Co-lead a classroom using a constructivist, play-based philosophy
• Plan and implement curriculum rooted in emergent interests and developmental milestones
• Observe and document growth through various forms of assessment and reflection
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with families through regular communication
• Contribute to a culture of co-learning and mutual respect among children and staff
• Maintain a safe, organized, developmentally appropriate learning environment
• Mentor or support assistant teachers and contribute to ongoing team development
• Work closely with your co-teacher to adapt plans fluidly based on classroom needs
• Participate in regular team meetings with a problem-solving, collaborative mindset

What We're Looking For

• At least 2 years of experience in early childhood education
• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or related field (preferred)
• Familiarity with Project Construct, Reggio Emilia, or other constructivist models
• A warm, professional demeanor with a genuine passion for nurturing children
• The ability to be highly flexible-responsive to children's needs, team dynamics, and evolving classroom rhythms
• Comfortable working in a collaborative, co-teaching environment
• Strong communication skills-with children, peers, and parents alike
• A self-starter who brings confidence, poise, and attention to detail
• Must pass Family Care Safety Registry and fingerprinting background checks
• Physical ability to engage with young children at their level and lift up to 50 lbs

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Our full-time team members receive:
• Competitive pay: $18–$20/hour to start, based on education and experience
• Annual cost-of-living raises every year
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (>$4,000/year value)
• 80% childcare discount for employees' children
• Paid time off, including paid parental leave
• Ongoing professional development and growth opportunities
• A deeply connected, community-rooted environment where your work is seen and valued

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

St. Louis, MO 63139 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

St. Louis, MO 63139: Relocate before starting work (Required)