Preschool Lead Teacher

Cadence Education; Waconia (MN); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition discount

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Health benefits

Educational support

Tuition reimbursement

Life insurance

Pet insurance

Job summary

Cadence Education is seeking a Preschool Lead Teacher to create a warm, inclusive classroom and deliver developmentally appropriate curriculum. You will lead classroom operations, partner with families, and support children’s physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs.

You will work under the School Director’s direction, ensuring safety compliance and implementing Cadence Education programs while promoting strong teamwork and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• Must meet state licensing requirements for Lead Teachers.
• 6–12 months of early childhood or classroom experience preferred.
• CDA, CCP, EEC or NAC credential preferred.
• DHS licensing qualifications may include multiple pathways.

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, welcoming classroom environment where every child is treated with dignity and care.
• Build positive relationships with children and families through daily greetings and communication.
• Recognize diverse developmental, behavioral, cultural, and learning needs, including IEPs.
• Plan, implement, and document developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Cadence programs.
• Use Cadence communication tools to interact professionally with families and staff.
• Maintain a safe, supervised classroom following safety policies.

Skills

Safety procedures

Classroom management

English communication

Education

Associate/Bachelor’s in ECE

Job description

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
• 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 holidaysMedical, dental, vision options available
  • Additional life, disability, and retirement plans
  • Educational and professional development
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Pet insurance
• Paid CDA

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.