Lead Teacher-Toddlers-Pre K

The Anchored School; Basking Ridge (NJ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The Anchored School seeks a knowledgeable Lead Teacher for ages 2–3. The role emphasizes nurturing development, family partnerships, and a high-quality curriculum that promotes exploration and school readiness.

You will implement developmentally appropriate practices, collaborate with colleagues, and ensure a safe, inclusive learning environment that supports each child's growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1–2 years of experience in a licensed early childhood setting.
• CDA/associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire.

Responsibilities

• Promote development with developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) and plan engaging experiences.
• Establish routines and a nurturing, inclusive learning environment.
• Assess and document children's progress and share updates with families.
• Engage families with ongoing communication about development and activities.
• Maintain health, safety and compliance with policies and licensing.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and collaborate with staff.

Skills

Communication

Classroom management

Interpersonal skills

Education

CDA / Associate degree in ECE

CPR & First Aid Certification

Job description

Lead Teacher (2–3 years old)

The Anchored School

The Anchored School is seeking a knowledgeable, dedicated Lead Teacher to join our early childhood education team. The ideal candidate will be committed to nurturing and supporting children ages 2–3 through developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) that promote their social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and academic development.

Position Summary

The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment that supports each child's individual growth and development. The successful candidate will build strong partnerships with families, collaborate with colleagues, and implement a high-quality curriculum that encourages exploration, independence, life skills, and school readiness.

Responsibilities

Child Development & Learning

• Promote children's development and learning through Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP).
• Plan, implement, and assess engaging learning experiences that support the child's overall development.
• Utilize project-based learning (PBL) and hands-on experiences to foster curiosity and problem‑solving skills.
• Create an inclusive classroom environment that respects and celebrates diversity.

Classroom Management

• Establish positive routines, expectations, and classroom procedures.
• Maintain a nurturing, structured, and responsive learning environment.
• Foster positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.

Assessment & Documentation

• Observe, assess, and document children's developmental progress and milestones.
• Use assessment data to inform instruction and support individual learning goals.
• Communicate children's progress regularly with families.

Family Engagement

• Build strong partnerships with parents and guardians.
• Provide ongoing communication regarding children's development and classroom activities.
• Offer support and resources to help families extend learning at home.

Health & Safety

• Maintain a clean, safe, and healthy classroom environment.
• Follow all state licensing regulations and school policies.
• Adhere to health, hygiene, food handling, and emergency procedures.

Professional Responsibilities

• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.
• Collaborate with teaching teams and school leadership.
• Advocate for children, families, and the early childhood profession.
• Maintain compliance with all NJCCIS, Grow NJ, and state-required training requirements.

Qualifications

Required

• Child Development Associate (CDA), associate degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience working with children in a licensed early childhood setting.
• Current CPR and First Aid Certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire.
• Strong understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to sit on the floor, kneel, bend, and actively engage with young children throughout the day.
• Ability to supervise indoor and outdoor activities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Anchored School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all children, families, and employees.