Lead Young Preschool Teacher

Small Hands Big Dreams; Mentor (OH); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Small Hands Big Dreams Learning Center in Mentor, OH is seeking a Lead Young Preschool Teacher for a full-time, on-site role. You will plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons, foster a caring classroom, and document progress while engaging families with regular updates.

The role emphasizes social-emotional and cognitive growth, collaboration with colleagues, and adherence to licensing and safety standards in a supportive learning environment.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in Early Childhood Education and understanding of developmental milestones for preschool-aged children.
• Ability to design and implement engaging Lesson Planning and Curriculum Development activities that support school readiness.
• Effective Communication skills for interacting with children, families, and colleagues in a clear, respectful, and collaborative manner.
• Knowledge of kindergarten readiness expectations and ability to prepare children for transition to Kindergarten.
• Previous experience in a preschool or childcare setting, preferably in a lead or primary teacher role.
• Relevant education such as a degree, credential, or coursework in Early Childhood Education or a related field (or willingness to obtain).
• Commitment to inclusive, non-discriminatory practices and creating a safe, supportive learning environment for all children.
• Ability to meet state childcare licensing requirements, including any background checks, health clearances, and training certifications.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons and activities for young preschool children.
• Create a caring, safe classroom environment and supervise children daily.
• Support social-emotional and cognitive growth and maintain clear communication with families about progress.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure consistent routines, documentation, and licensing standards.
• Participate in staff meetings and professional learning opportunities; manage classroom operations.

Skills

Early Childhood Education

Curriculum Design

Communication with Families

Kindergarten Readiness

Classroom Management

Education

Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

Job description

Company Description Small Hands Big Dreams Learning Center provides high-quality preschool education and childcare designed to support children’s development and strengthen the community. The organization emphasizes empathy, respect, and strong relationships with children, families, and local partners, including sharing time and resources with those in need. Programs are tailored to each child’s age and individual needs, with a strong focus on communication with parents, safety, and flexible scheduling. Centers offer all-inclusive care by providing meals, formula, baby food, diapers, and wipes to help families spend more meaningful time together at home. Recognized as a North Coast 99 award recipient, Small Hands Big Dreams is considered one of the top employers in Northeast Ohio, with multiple locations including Mentor, where this role is based.

Role Description The Lead Young Preschool Teacher is a full-time, on-site role located in Mentor, OH. This role is responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate lessons and activities for young preschool children, aligned with the center’s curriculum and educational philosophy. Daily tasks include creating a caring, safe classroom environment, supervising children, supporting social-emotional and cognitive growth, and maintaining clear communication with families about each child’s progress. The Lead Teacher will collaborate with team members to ensure consistent routines, accurate documentation, and adherence to all licensing and safety standards. Additional responsibilities include classroom management, monitoring child behavior and development, and participating in staff meetings and professional learning opportunities.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in Early Childhood Education and understanding of developmental milestones for preschool-aged children.
• Ability to design and implement engaging Lesson Planning and Curriculum Development activities that support school readiness.
• Effective Communication skills for interacting with children, families, and colleagues in a clear, respectful, and collaborative manner.
• Knowledge of kindergarten readiness expectations and ability to prepare children for transition to Kindergarten.
• Previous experience in a preschool or childcare setting, preferably in a lead or primary teacher role.
• Relevant education such as a degree, credential, or coursework in Early Childhood Education or a related field (or willingness to obtain).
• Commitment to inclusive, non-discriminatory practices and creating a safe, supportive learning environment for all children.
• Ability to meet state childcare licensing requirements, including any background checks, health clearances, and training certifications.