Lead Teacher — Reggio-Inspired Growth & Impact

The Goddard School; Newark (DE); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Employee discounts

Paid time off

Signing bonus

Training & development

Job summary

The Goddard School of Newark in Newark, DE is hiring for a full-time teaching role dedicated to the whole-child development model in a Reggio-inspired environment. You will design and lead engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum and foster strong partnerships with families.

We value dependable teammates who contribute to a collaborative school culture and support each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. Join us to grow professionally.

Qualifications

• CDA, Associate’s, or Bachelor’s degree in ECE or related field (preferred).
• Previous experience in early childhood education required.
• Must meet Delaware licensing requirements.
• Ability to commit to a consistent full-time schedule.

Responsibilities

• Create and lead a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum
• Observe children and guide learning through their interests
• Build strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborate closely with your Assistant Teacher and team
• Support children’s social-emotional development
• Communicate consistently with families
• Contribute to a positive, professional school culture

Education

Bachelor's degree / CDA / Associate in ECE or related field

Job description

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Bonus based on performance
• Competitive salary
• Employee discounts
• Paid time off
• Signing bonus
• Training & development

The Goddard School of Newark – Newark, DE

Pay: $18.00 – $23.00 per hour + Signing Bonus + Performance Incentives + Performance Bonuses
Job Type: Full-Time

This Is Not Just a Teaching Job. It’s a Professional Role.

At The Goddard School of Newark, we are building something intentional.

We are a school grounded in the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy, where children learn through relationships, meaningful experiences, and thoughtfully prepared environments. Our classrooms support the whole child—socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically—and our teachers are respected as professionals who make that possible.

If you’re looking for a school where your voice matters, your thinking is valued, and your work with children and families is taken seriously—this may be the right place for you.

Compensation & Performance Incentives

• $18.00 – $23.00 per hour (based on experience)
• Signing Bonus Available
• Bonus Performance Incentive Program:
• Earn an additional $0.50/hour for every full-paying student you help enroll
• Bonuses remain as long as the child stays enrolled
• No cap on earnings
• Referral bonuses for:
• New student enrollments
• New staff hires

What Makes Our School Different

• Whole-child development—not just academics
• Hands-on, inquiry-based learning environments
• Strong partnerships with families
• Outdoor learning and nutrition-focused routines
• Beautiful, engaging classrooms
• A collaborative, team-oriented culture
• Professional growth and leadership opportunities

A Quick Note on Professional Expectations

In our environment, teamwork and consistency matter. Being dependable and maintaining regular attendance helps ensure a stable, supportive experience for both children and your fellow teachers.

We don’t believe in “checking boxes.”
We believe in intentional teaching.

The Role: What You’ll Do

• Create and lead a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum
• Observe children and guide learning through their interests
• Build strong relationships with children and families
• Collaborate closely with your Assistant Teacher and team
• Support children’s social-emotional development
• Communicate consistently with families
• Contribute to a positive, professional school culture

Who Thrives in This Role

• Educators who believe early childhood education is meaningful, skilled work
• Teachers who value relationships as the foundation of learning
• Individuals who are reflective, coachable, and growth-oriented
• Team players who enjoy collaboration and shared responsibility
• Professionals who take pride in their work

Education & Requirements

• CDA, Associate’s, or Bachelor’s degree in ECE or related field (preferred)
• Previous experience in early childhood education required
• Must meet Delaware licensing requirements
• Ability to commit to a consistent full-time schedule

Benefits

• 401(k) with 3% employer match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Childcare discount
• Paid CPR & First Aid training
• Paid professional development
• Paid staff meetings and in-service days
• Tuition reimbursement
• Free coffee bar