Lead Infant Teacher

Over The Rainbow Learning Center; Hamden (CT); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Over the Rainbow Learning Center in CT is seeking a Lead Teacher for its Early Childhood Program. You will own your classroom, implement a play-based CTELDS-aligned curriculum, and plan weekly lessons.

You will supervise children, document development, communicate with families via Brightwheel, and uphold health and safety standards. This role values reliability, initiative, and teamwork.

Qualifications include a diploma and group-setting experience; CPR/First Aid; and CT background check.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required).
• Experience working with children in a group setting (required).
• CDA, Associate’s, or Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education (strongly preferred).
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to pass a CT background check and health screening.

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain a safe, structured, and engaging classroom environment.
• Implement a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with CTELDS.
• Plan and execute weekly lesson plans (submitted on time, every time).
• Maintain active supervision and strict adherence to child safety protocols.
• Build strong, professional relationships with families and coworkers.
• Manage classroom routines, transitions, and behavior with consistency and professionalism.
• Observe, assess, and document children’s development and progress.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked classroom environment.
• Use Brightwheel daily for communication, documentation, and family engagement.
• Follow all health, safety, licensing, and sanitation procedures without exception.

Skills

Reliable attendance

Classroom management

Professional communication

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

CDA / Associate’s / Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education (preferred)

CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Job description

Lead Teacher– Early Childhood Program

At Over the Rainbow Learning Center, we serve children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old in a play-based, CTELDS-aligned program designed to support the full development of every child—social/emotional, physical, cognitive, and language.

We are building a team of educators who show up prepared, take pride in their work, and hold themselves to a high standard every single day.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

This role requires someone who can own their classroom and lead with intention. You will:

• Create and maintain a safe, structured, and engaging classroom environment
• Implement a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with CTELDS
• Plan and execute weekly lesson plans (submitted on time, every time)
• Maintain active supervision and strict adherence to child safety protocols
• Build strong, professional relationships with families and coworkers
• Manage classroom routines, transitions, and behavior with consistency and professionalism
• Observe, assess, and document children’s development and progress
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked classroom environment
• Use Brightwheel daily for communication, documentation, and family engagement
• Follow all health, safety, licensing, and sanitation procedures without exception

What Sets This Role Apart

We are not a “go with the flow” environment. We expect:

• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Follow-through, you complete tasks without being reminded
• Professional communication with families, children, and staff
• Strong classroom management- calm, structured, and proactive
• Attention to detail, from labeling shelves to documenting development
• Team contribution- you support others and accept feedback

• Contribute to a language-rich, play-centered classroom
• Maintain learning centers and sensory experiences daily
• Ensure children are clean, cared for, and ready for their day and dismissal
• Support potty training, feeding routines, and nap schedules
• Uphold strict health and safety practices, including handwashing, sanitation, and incident reporting

Who Thrives Here

You will do well in this role if you are:

• Naturally organized and proactive
• Confident in managing a classroom independently
• Strong in building relationships with families
• Able to balance structure with warmth
• Open to feedback and continuous improvement
• Motivated by being part of a high-functioning, accountable team

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required)
• Experience working with children in a group setting (required)
• CDA, Associate’s, or Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education (strongly preferred)
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Ability to pass a CT background check and health screening

Physical & Work Expectations

This is an active, hands-on role. You will:

• Lift, carry, and actively engage with children throughout the day
• Be on your feet, kneeling, bending, and moving frequently
• Work in a fast-paced environment with noise and constant interaction
• Maintain supervision and awareness at all times

Why Join Over the Rainbow

• A structured, professional environment with clear expectations
• A program rooted in play, development, and purpose
• A team that values reliability, accountability, and respect
• Opportunities for growth and professional development

Our Core Values

• Excellence – We hold high standards in everything we do
• Kindness – We model respect, empathy, and care
• Family – We partner with and support our families
• Fun – We believe learning should be joyful and engaging