Preschool Lead Teacher

Cadence Education; Fair Oaks (VA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition discount

401(k) match

Paid time off

Medical benefits

Life insurance

Educational development

Tuition reimbursement

Pet insurance

Job summary

Cadence Education is seeking a Preschool Lead Teacher to join our Fairfax, VA team. You will lead a classroom, deliver developmentally appropriate curriculum, and partner with families to support each child’s growth, safety, and well-being.

The role requires compliance with licensing and school policies, with opportunities for professional development and a comprehensive benefits package for full-time staff.

Qualifications

• Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in licensed childcare centers.
• 6–12 months of early childhood or classroom experience preferred depending on education.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
• Must meet DHS licensing qualifications and be able to obtain background clearances.
• CDA or equivalent credential preferred but not required if state requirements are met.

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, welcoming classroom environment treating every child with dignity and care.
• Build positive, professional relationships with children and families through daily greetings and ongoing communication.
• Recognize and respond to diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs including IEPs.
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Cadence philosophy.
• Utilize Cadence systems to communicate professionally with families and staff.
• Maintain a safe, well-supervised classroom adhering to safety manuals and licensing rules.
• Document accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors per policy.
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and development outside regular hours.

Skills

Safety procedures

Classroom management

English communication

Education

ECE degree preferred

Job description

Job Location : Address

12301 Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy.

Company Overview

We are hiring a Preschool Lead Teacher to join our team of dedicated educators. If you’re passionate about early childhood development and have experience in childcare, daycare, or preschool education, we’d love to meet you.

Why Join Us?We’re a community of professionals who care deeply about children and their growth. Our schools foster collaboration, open communication, and a supportive work environment. We prioritize work-life balance and provide the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Under the direction of the School Director, the Lead Teacher plays a vital role in creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for children. This position is responsible for planning and delivering curriculum, leading classroom operations, and implementing Cadence Education programs while supporting the physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs of all children—including those with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Lead Teachers are classroom leaders who model professionalism, ensure compliance with licensing and safety requirements, and partner with families and team members to support each child’s growth and success.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation - Hourly pay range: $19.50 - $22.50
• On demand pay with UKG Wallet
• 50% childcare tuition discount
• 401(k) with employer match
• Comprehensive benefit package for all full-time employees, including:
• Paid time off that increases with seniority
• Paid holidays
• Medical, dental, vision options available
• Additional life, disability, and retirement plans
• Educational and professional development
• Tuition reimbursement
• Company-paid life insurance
• Pet insurance
• Paid CDA

Job Description

What You’ll Do

• Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment where every child is treated with dignity, respect, and care.
• Build positive, professional relationships with children and families, including daily greetings and ongoing communication.
• Recognize and respond to diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, including implementing IEPs and behavioral support plans as required.
• Plan, implement, and document developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Cadence educational philosophy and Signature Programs.
• Use Cadence-required systems and communication tools to communicate professionally with families, coworkers, and leadership.
• Maintain a safe and well-supervised classroom, following the Cadence Education Safety and Supervision Manual at all times.
• Accurately document and report accidents, incidents, and escalated behaviors in accordance with company policy and licensing requirements.
• Follow all Cadence Education policies, procedures, and standards outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development, which may occur outside of regularly scheduled work hours.

What We’re Looking For

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to follow all safety procedures, including Name-to-Face accountability, food allergy processes, bottle-feeding procedures, and Safe Sleep practices.
• Ability to manage a classroom environment with consistency, structure, and care.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Education

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.

Experience

• Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers in a licensed childcare center.
• A minimum of 6-12 months of early childhood or classroom experience is preferred, depending on education and credentials.

Credentials & Licensing

• Must meet all Department of Health Services (DHS) licensing qualifications for Lead Teachers, which may include:
  • High school diploma or GED plus required experience or
  • College coursework in early childhood education or
  • CDA, CCP, EEC or NAC credential
• Ability to obtain and maintain required background clearances and health screenings.
• CDA preferred but not required if state requirements are met.

Scheduling Requirements (Please Review Carefully)

• Flexibility is essential. Schedules may change based on enrollment, staffing ratios, and operational needs.
• Work schedules may vary and are not guaranteed to be eight-hour shifts.
• Daily end times may vary and cannot be guaranteed. #LI-Onsite

#CR

Job Location : City

Fairfax

Job Location : State/Province

VA