PREK/Junior Kindergarten Lead Teacher

The Goddard School of West Orange, NJ; West Orange (NJ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

No nights and weekends

Childcare discounts

Professional development and CDA tuition reimbursement

401(k)

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Paid time off

Training & development

Vision insurance

Company parties

Free uniforms

Profit sharing

Job summary

A nurturing childcare center in West Orange, NJ is seeking a passionate Lead Teacher. The role requires creating engaging lesson plans, managing a safe classroom, and effectively communicating with families. Ideal candidates should have a high school diploma, preferably in Early Childhood Education, and some experience with young children. Join a supportive team dedicated to making a difference in children’s lives every day.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate's or bachelor's in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) preferred.
• 1-2 years of previous experience in a licensed childcare or preschool setting preferred.
• Successfully completed state-required pre-service training.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. in connection with the handling of children.

Responsibilities

• Implement age-appropriate lesson plans using the Wonder of Learning® curriculum.
• Create and maintain a safe and nurturing classroom environment.
• Maintain effective communication with families about children’s progress.
• Supervise children during activities to uphold health and safety standards.
• Participate in ongoing professional development to enhance teaching skills.
• Observe and document children’s learning to share with families.
• Support Assistant Teachers and foster a positive team environment.
• Model positive guidance strategies for social-emotional growth.

Skills

Child Development

Effective Communication

Classroom Management

Lesson Planning

Professional development participation

Behavior guidance

Education

High school diploma

Associate's or Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education

Child Development Associate (CDA)

Job description

Benefits:

• No nights and weekends
• Childcare discounts
• Recognition programs
• Professional development and CDA tuition reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement
• 401(k)
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Vision insurance
• Company parties
• Free uniforms
• Profit sharing

The Goddard School® located at: 303 Mt. Pleasant Avenue West Orange, NJ 07052 is seeking a passionate Lead Teacher. At our School, we put our teachers first because they put our students first. Join us to create a nurturing environment for young children by implementing an engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum using our proprietary Wonder of Learning® program. Lead daily activities, inspire young minds and collaborate with a supportive team.

Nurture your growth. Empower your success. Join our welcoming community, where you can grow and make a real difference in children’s lives every day. If you’re passionate about education and children, and ready to advance your career, we’d love to hear from you!

Lead Teacher Key Responsibilities:

• Curriculum and Instruction: Implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities using our proprietary Wonder of Learning® curriculum to engage and support each child’s growth
• Classroom Management: Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment
• Family Communication: Maintain open, effective and positive communication with families and guardians about their child’s progress and daily activities
• Health and Safety: Supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities to uphold health and safety standards, licensing regulations and ensure their well‑being
• Professional Development: Participate actively in ongoing professional development and training opportunities to enhance teaching skills
• Assessment and Documentation: Observe, assess and document children’s learning and development to inform activities and share insights with families
• Team Collaboration: Support Assistant Teachers and Resource Teachers, fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.
• Behavior Guidance: Model and implement positive guidance strategies to support social‑emotional growth and conflict resolution.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma required; associate's or bachelor's in Early Childhood Education preferred
• Child Development Associate (CDA) preferred
• 1-2 years of previous experience working with young children in a licensed childcare or preschool setting preferred
• Has successfully completed state‑required pre‑service training
• Develops relationships and communicates effectively with children, families and faculty members
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. in connection with the handling of children

If you’re an energetic, nurturing person looking for a supportive and fun workplace, join us! Our School offers a premium educational experience in state‑of‑the‑art facilities, helping every child become a joyful, confident learner ready for success in school and life.