Lead Teacher – Early Childhood (Full-Time)

Servingschools; Berwick (ME); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

60-minute breaks daily

Maine ECE Salary Supplement

Nut-free facility

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

Tree Frog Learning Center in Berwick, ME is seeking a confident Lead Teacher to manage a classroom for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. You will lead a team of assistants, create structure, and communicate progress with families.

Ideal candidates are warm, proactive, and capable of establishing routines while providing a fun, safe learning environment. Competitive pay and benefits discussed during interview.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; CDA or higher in ECE preferred.
• Active MRTQ Practitioner Registry or willingness to register.
• CPR & First Aid certification current or willingness to obtain.
• 1–2 years leading a licensed early childhood classroom.
• Pass Maine DHHS, SBI and fingerprinting background checks.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a creative, play-based curriculum aligned with MELDS.
• Use varied educational techniques (storytelling, play, media, crafts) to teach basics.
• Observe children to track developmental progress and support social skills.
• Guide peer interactions and help children resolve conflicts peacefully.
• Organize nap and snack times and supervise for safety at all times.
• Communicate with parents to understand each child’s background and progress.
• Lead and collaborate with Assistants and Float staff to maintain a clean, safe classroom.

Skills

Patience with children

Communication skills

Classroom management

Team collaboration

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Active CDA or higher ed in ECE preferred

Job description

Tree Frog Learning Center is expanding our teaching teams! We are seeking a confident, proactive Lead Teacher who naturally takes charge of a classroom, sets a positive tone, and creates a structured, fun environment. We educate children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old across our infant, toddler, preschool, and Pre-K classrooms.

The ideal candidate is a passionate, warm communicator who easily engages a room, establishes clear routines, and earns the trust and attention of our young learners and their families.

Schedule & Shift Details

• Work Week: Monday through Friday
• Shift: Full-Time (Scheduled between 7:00 AM and 5:30 PM)
• Breaks: Structured 60-minute daily breaks built directly into the schedule

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a creative, play-based curriculum aligned with state early learning standards (MELDS).
• Employ varied educational techniques (storytelling, educational play, media, crafts) to teach shapes, numbers, colors, and practical capabilities.
• Observe children to track developmental progress, support social competencies, and build self-esteem.
• Guide peer interactions, helping children learn to resolve arguments peacefully.
• Organize nap and snack hours, actively supervising children to ensure safety at all times.
• Communicate regularly with parents to understand each child’s background and share developmental progress.
• Lead and collaborate with Assistant Teachers and Float staff to maintain a clean, tidy, and safe classroom.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Love & Patience for Children: A genuine dedication to early childhood development.
• Education: High School Diploma/GED required; active CDA (Child Development Associate), or an Associate/Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Registry: Active membership on the Maine Roads to Quality (MRTQ) Practitioner Registry (or willingness to register upon hire).
• Certifications: Current Child CPR & First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Background Check: Ability to pass required Maine DHHS, State Bureau of Identification (SBI), and fingerprinting checks.
• Experience: Minimum 1–2 years leading a licensed early childhood classroom preferred.

Compensation & Workplace Benefits

• Pay Rate: Determined by Education and Experience (commensurate with MRTQ level and credentials), starting at $18.00/hr.
• Maine Salary Supplement: Eligible positions qualify for monthly stipends through the Maine ECE Workforce Salary Supplement Program.
• Workplace Support: Guaranteed 60-minute daily breaks, predictable schedules, and paid ongoing professional development.
• Facility Safety: We are a nut‑free facility.

Tree Frog Learning Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.