Lead Teacher - Clinton Child Care Center

Boys-; Clinton (TN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lead Teacher position in Clinton, TN leads classroom operations, implements curriculum, and ensures DHS licensing standards are met. You will supervise staff, engage families, and promote development in young children while maintaining a safe, nurturing environment.

Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills are essential. The role requires adherence to center policies and ongoing professional development to support children’s growth and well-being.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Tennessee DHS child care licensing requirements.
• CPR/First Aid Certification or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Experience in licensed child care preferred.
• Ability to pass required background checks and drug screenings.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum and learning experiences.
• Supervise and support assistant teachers and classroom aides.
• Maintain a safe, organized classroom and enforce health/sanitation procedures.
• Document development and communicate with families on progress.
• Lead onboarding and mentor new staff and participate in meetings.

Skills

Classroom management

Effective communication

Teamwork

Multitasking

Professionalism

Confidentiality

Organizational skills

Calm under pressure

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree or CDA or Associate’s degree

Early Childhood Education coursework

Job description

Position SummaryThe Lead Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment for children. This position leads classroom operations, implements curriculum, supervises classroom staff, and ensures compliance with all Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing regulations and center policies. The Lead Teacher promotes positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers while supporting children’s growth and development.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesClassroom Management & InstructionPlan and implement age-appropriate curriculum and learning experiences aligned with developmental milestones.Create a positive, engaging, and structured classroom environment.Maintain consistent daily routines and classroom schedules.Use positive behavior guidance and classroom management strategies.Observe and document children’s development and progress.Ensure active supervision of children at all times.DHS Compliance & Health/SafetyMaintain compliance with all Tennessee DHS licensing standards and center policies.Ensure classroom adherence to:Child-to-staff ratiosSupervision requirementsHealth and sanitation proceduresSafe sleep practices (if applicable)Attendance and documentation requirementsEmergency proceduresMedication and incident reporting proceduresMaintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.Immediately report injuries, incidents, or concerns to administration.Staff Leadership & TeamworkSupervise and support assistant teachers and classroom aides.Delegate classroom responsibilities appropriately.Model professionalism, teamwork, and positive communication.Assist with onboarding and mentoring new staff.Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.Family EngagementBuild positive and respectful relationships with families.Communicate regularly regarding children’s progress, behavior, and daily activities.Address parent questions and concerns professionally.Support family engagement activities and center events.Minimum QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED required. Must be 18 years oldBachelors, CDA, Associate’s degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred.Experience working in a licensed child care setting preferred.Knowledge of Tennessee DHS child care licensing requirements.CPR/First Aid Certification or ability to obtain upon hire.Ability to pass required background checks and drug screenings.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesUnderstanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.Strong classroom management and organizational skills.Effective communication and teamwork abilities.Ability to multitask and maintain professionalism in a fast-paced environment.Ability to maintain confidentiality.Physical RequirementsAbility to lift up to 40 pounds.Ability to bend, kneel, sit on the floor, and actively engage with children.Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors.Ability to respond quickly in emergencies.Work ScheduleFull-time position with flexibility based on center operational needs.Occasional early mornings, evenings, or special events may be required.DisclaimerThis job description outlines the general responsibilities and expectations of the position and may be modified based on operational needs.