Lead Teacher 4-5's and Enrichment

Archdiocese of St. Louis; Chesterfield (MO); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution seeks a Lead Teacher to manage classroom operations and support child development. The role emphasizes a play-based curriculum aligned with Catholic teachings, fostering a nurturing environment for holistic growth. Ideal candidates will have a passion for education and a commitment to the Catholic faith.

Qualifications

• Understanding of educational programs for young children.
• Warm and friendly personality, valuing uniqueness.
• Desire for professional growth through continuous learning.

Responsibilities

• Manage classroom operations and support child development.
• Design and implement a play-based curriculum.
• Promote growth in social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual areas.

Skills

Knowledge of the Catholic Faith

Communication

Collaboration

Behavior management

Conflict resolution

Job description

Job Description

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The Lead Teacher, in collaboration with the Director, holds primary responsibility for the classroom and partners with an assistant or associate teacher when applicable. The role supports the holistic development of children in line with the “Learn through Play” philosophy of Ascension Early Childhood Center (The Little School), integrating Catholic teachings into daily activities.

Core Responsibilities:

1. Plan and implement curriculum addressing social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual growth.
2. Prepare the classroom environment and ensure diverse, age-appropriate learning experiences.
3. Foster child independence, choice-making, and group or individual engagement.
4. Reinforce developmental goals and support language acquisition.
5. Model respectful communication, using calm and encouraging guidance.
6. Promote conflict resolution and emotional expression through positive behavioral techniques.
7. Ensure a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom atmosphere.

Job Responsibilities

Responsible for managing classroom operations and supporting child development in collaboration with assistant or associate teachers. Designs and implements a play-based curriculum aligned with Ascension Early Childhood Center’s philosophy and Catholic teachings. Promotes growth in social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual areas.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plan and deliver age-appropriate, play-based curriculum.
2. Prepare and maintain a safe, engaging classroom environment.
3. Support children's independence, communication, and conflict resolution.
4. Foster respectful, inclusive, and positive interactions.
5. Use proactive guidance and behavior management strategies.

Job Requirements

• Knowledge of the Catholic Faith, supporting and practicing the teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Willingness to consider the education of children and their parents as a way of serving the church.
• Understanding of sound educational programs for young children (ages and stages), recognizing needs across social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual domains.
• A warm and friendly personality, recognizing each person as unique and valued.
• Genuine desire to work with children and maintain open communication with their parents.
• Ability to collaborate with co-professionals in planning and implementing educational programs.
• Desire for professional growth through reading, studying, and attending conferences.
• Present a professional image in manner, dress, and communication.
• Punctuality.

Experience the Difference. MAKE a difference.

Rooted in the love of Jesus Christ, our schools are safe, welcoming communities where teachers are supported, and children are nurtured to grow and reach their full potential through rigorous academics, high expectations, and faith-based service.

Catholic Education in our region dates back more than 200 years. Today, our parish and archdiocesan schools serve over 30,000 students across St. Louis and surrounding Missouri counties.