Lead Preschool Teacher — Full-Time, $28-$35/hr, Seattle

Associated Recreation Council; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% Employer-paid Medical, Dental and

Vision Insurance

401(k) with 5% match

Paid time off (PTO) with holidays

Flexible Spending Account

Life insurance

Job summary

Associated Recreation Council is seeking a Preschool Lead Teacher for the Ballard Community Center in Seattle. The role focuses on designing and delivering a developmentally appropriate curriculum for children aged 3–5 and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in ECE or related field with MERIT approval, plus at least 2 years of preschool teaching experience and relevant certifications.

Qualifications

• Seattle Preschool Programs requires a bachelor’s degree or higher, verified as “approved” in MERIT in ECE or a related field.
• OR a bachelor’s degree with MERIT approval plus at least 30 approved ECE quarter credits verified through MERIT (up to 10 of these may be ECE-School Age hybrid credits).
• If you do not meet the educational requirements but are committed to obtaining them, we encourage you to apply and may support an education plan to complete qualifications within 4 years.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement high-quality, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with DCYF WACs and SPP contract mandates.
• Lead classroom operations, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for children ages 3–5.
• Mentor and guide assistant teachers and support staff to maintain effective classroom management and program quality.
• Engage and communicate regularly with families, staff, and community partners to support child development and program success.
• Maintain a staff-to-child ratio of 1:10 to ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children.
• Report directly to the Licensed Preschool Director for guidance and support.

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or related field

MERIT-verified ECE credits (≥30 quarter credits)

Job description

Associated Recreation Council is seeking a Preschool Lead Teacher for the Ballard Community Center in Seattle. The role focuses on designing and delivering a developmentally appropriate curriculum for children aged 3–5 and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in ECE or related field with MERIT approval, plus at least 2 years of preschool teaching experience and relevant certifications.