Lead Teacher

The Goddard School; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 19,286 - 22,041; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Childcare discounts

Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

The Goddard School in Chattanooga, TN is seeking passionate lead teachers to join our dynamic team. You will coordinate daily classroom operations, plan educational activities, and engage with parents about their children's development.

Ideal candidates have a degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, along with experience in the field. We offer competitive pay between $14.00 - $16.00 per hour and numerous benefits to support your professional development.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of previous experience in early childhood education preferred.
• Ability to handle stressful situations professionally while multi-tasking.
• Must meet background check eligibility.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily operations of assigned classes.
• Plan and present educational activities for children.
• Communicate with parents about their children's progress.

Skills

Child Development

Communication

Classroom Management

Education

Associate or Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education or related field

Child Development Associate (CDA)

Job description

Are you passionate about positively impacting children’s lives and making a difference in the world of early childhood education? Are you an energetic, nurturing person looking for a workplace that’s supportive and fun? If so, then The Goddard School is the place for you! We offer a premium educational experience in our state‑of‑the‑art facilities that is full of passion and enthusiasm. We are committed to providing a safe, dynamic, and nurturing environment that will allow every child to develop into a joyful and confident learner prepared for success in school and in life.

Apply today and see for yourself what it’s like to work for an employer who knows the heart of our School is our teachers. YOU are a driving force of our culture and you’ll notice the difference right away.

Benefits & Perks of Working at a Goddard School:

• Your well‑being is important to us! Many of our schools offer medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off and holidays, and childcare discounts.
• Your professional development is prioritized! Our own Goddard Systems University is accredited by IACET to provide Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Plus, many of our schools offer CDA credentials and provide tuition reimbursement. We also pride ourselves on promoting from within so you can continue to grow your career with us.
• You will be a part of a supportive team! Teachers have full support from our directors, including planning or resource time, to be successful in the classroom. We promise to maintain ratios and ensure you have the resources to make your classroom a success.
• We recognize our teachers! We have recognition programs that are offered throughout the year.

Our lead teachers are responsible for coordinating the daily operations of assigned classes. Teachers will plan, present, and evaluate educational and recreational activities for childcare in a safe environment. Teachers work directly with children and parents daily to provide quality customer service.

What’s it like to be a teacher at our School?

• Feel a sense of accomplishment as you experience the laughter and wonder of children participating in activities you planned.
• Observe children’s interests and work with other teachers to develop creative ideas for an engaging curriculum.
• Communicate with parents daily, sharing their children’s latest adventures and achievements through a variety of avenues, including mobile apps and personal discussions.
• Engage with other childcare professionals and continue to grow in your profession.

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) preferred.
• 1‑2 years of previous experience preferred.
• Has successfully completed state‑required pre‑service training.
• Develops relationships and communicates effectively with children, parents, and faculty members.
• Ability to calmly address stressful situations professionally while multi‑tasking to ensure smooth school operations.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. in connection with the handling of children for the facilitation of programs, child safety, and potential emergency situations. For Infant and Young Toddler Teachers, must be able to properly lift infants into and out of a crib.
• Meets background check eligibility.

Curriculum & Instruction

• Plan and implement age‑appropriate lesson plans aligned with The Goddard School’s educational curriculum and philosophy.
• Support and supervise children during structured and unstructured play.
• Ensure weekly lesson plan bins are prepared in advance for the following week.
• Use observation and assessment tools to track and support each child’s progress.
• Fulfill student portfolio requirements on a monthly basis.

Classroom Management

• Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and engaging classroom environment.
• Establish consistent routines for meals, diapering, toileting, and rest time.
• Establish positive behavior management strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing, QA, and NECPA regulations.
• Ensure Tadpoles is kept updated throughout each day.

Leadership & Team Collaboration

• Supervise, mentor, and collaborate with assistant teachers and new staff in the classroom.
• Collaborate with school administration to continue to meet The Goddard School’s standards.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development days.

Family Engagement

• Build positive relationships with the families of the students.
• Communicate regularly about children’s progress, milestones, and concerns.
• Conduct parent‑teacher conferences on a regular basis.

Compensation: $14.00 - $16.00 per hour