Early Childhood Teacher (2026-2027)

82Nd Street Academics; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Benefits Package (Health, Dental, Vision, 403b retirement plan)

Ongoing professional development

Supportive and collaborative team culture

Job summary

82Nd Street Academics is seeking a passionate Lead Teacher for our Universal Pre-K program in Jackson Heights, NY. The position involves creating an inclusive and stimulating classroom that aligns with NYCDOE standards. Responsibilities include lesson planning, classroom management, and ongoing student assessments.

Ideal candidates will have NYS Certification in Early Childhood Education, 1-2 years of preschool experience, and be enthusiastic about a collaborative environment. We offer comprehensive benefits and professional growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Prior classroom experience with preschool-aged children, especially in 3K or 4K programs.
• Strong understanding of child development and culturally responsive teaching.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver daily lessons aligned with NYCDOE’s Pre-K Units of Study.
• Create a structured, nurturing classroom environment.
• Conduct ongoing assessments of children’s development.
• Build partnerships with families through regular communication.

Skills

Fluency in English and one additional language (preferred)

Classroom management

Excellent communication

Education

NYS Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 2)

Minimum of 90 college credits in Early Childhood Education

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Position Type: Full Time

Salary Range: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 Salary/year

Job Shift: Day

Position Overview

We are seeking a passionate, experienced, and collaborative Lead Teacher to join our Universal Pre‑K (UPK) program. The Lead Teacher will be responsible for creating a warm, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating classroom environment that aligns with the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) standards and curriculum. This position plays a key role in preparing children for kindergarten and beyond, while fostering their social, emotional, and academic development.

Key Responsibilities

• Curriculum Implementation: Plan and deliver daily lessons aligned with the NYCDOE’s Pre‑K Units of Study, incorporating play‑based, inquiry‑driven, and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Classroom Management: Create a structured, nurturing classroom environment that supports exploration, creativity, and positive behavior.
• Student Assessment: Conduct ongoing, authentic assessments of children’s development using DOE tools such as TS GOLD and Work Sampling System; use data to inform instruction and meet individual student needs.
• Family Engagement: Build strong partnerships with families through regular communication, parent‑teacher conferences, and family engagement activities.
• Supervision: Guide and support Assistant Teachers and classroom floaters; delegate responsibilities effectively to ensure smooth classroom operations.
• Record Keeping & Compliance: Maintain accurate attendance, health, safety, and assessment records in accordance with DOE and program requirements.
• Collaboration: Work closely with instructional coaches, administrators, and DOE partners to align goals, receive feedback, and participate in ongoing professional development.

Additional Requirements

• Fluency in English and one additional language preferred (Spanish, Mandarin, or Bengali)
• Prior classroom experience with preschool‑aged children, especially in 3K or 4K programs
• Minimum of 90 college credits in Early Childhood Education (for Study Plan candidates)
• Enthusiasm for working in a collaborative, multicultural, and high‑energy environment

Qualifications Required

• NYS Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 2)
• OR
• Currently enrolled in an approved Early Childhood Education program with a valid study plan approved by the DOE.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience working with preschool‑aged children in an early childhood setting.
• Strong understanding of child development, culturally responsive teaching, and the NYC Pre‑K for All Framework.
• Excellent communication, organization, and classroom management skills.

What We Offer

• Supportive and collaborative team culture
• Ongoing professional development
• Opportunity for growth within the organization
• Comprehensive Benefits Package (Health, Dental, Vision, 403b retirement plan)

Why Join 82nd Street Academics?

• Innovative Curriculum: Our teachers bring learning to life—whether that means building an indoor jungle or transforming the classroom into a farm.
• Family Engagement: We serve families who are highly invested in their children's growth and success.
• Professional Growth: We value each staff member’s unique skills and support professional development opportunities. Your contributions will directly impact students’ paths to lifelong learning and college readiness.