Preschool/ Pre-K Lead Teacher

The Goddard School; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Training & development

401(k) matching

Job summary

The Goddard School in Charlotte, NC is seeking a warm, energetic Lead Teacher for our Preschool/Pre-K classroom. You will provide clear expectations, strong leadership, and a nurturing learning environment to support social, emotional, and academic readiness for kindergarten.

This role emphasizes teamwork, ongoing curriculum implementation, and proactive collaboration with families and staff to maintain a safe, engaging classroom aligned with state licensing requirements.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• CD A or Early Childhood Teaching Credential preferred.
• Active enrollment in an accredited degree program in early childhood education or related field acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a structured yet flexible daily classroom schedule
• Learn, implement, and follow the school’s curriculum with consistency and enthusiasm
• Create engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support kindergarten readiness
• Support children’s social-emotional development using patience, encouragement, and positive guidance
• Create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that promotes independence, confidence, and curiosity
• Communicate professionally and effectively with families, coworkers, and administration
• Use positive behavior management strategies while maintaining consistent classroom expectations
• Work collaboratively with co-teachers and support staff
• Demonstrate initiative by identifying classroom needs and proactively offering support
• Support children’s cognitive, language, physical, and emotional development
• Maintain compliance with all state licensing, health, and safety requirements

Education

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education

CDA or Early Childhood Teaching Credential

Active enrollment in related degree program

Job description

Lead Teacher – Preschool / Pre-K Classroom

Position Overview

We are seeking an energetic, confident, and consistent Lead Teacher for our Preschool/Pre-K classroom. This individual should be warm, nurturing, and organized, while also providing clear expectations and strong classroom leadership. Our ideal candidate understands the importance of balancing structure, creativity, and flexibility within an early childhood environment. We are looking for a team-oriented educator with strong communication skills who is passionate about preparing children socially, emotionally, and academically for kindergarten success.

Benefits

• Paid time off
• Training & development
• 401(k) matching

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a structured yet flexible daily classroom schedule
• Learn, implement, and follow the school’s curriculum with consistency and enthusiasm
• Create engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support kindergarten readiness
• Support children’s social-emotional development using patience, encouragement, and positive guidance
• Create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that promotes independence, confidence, and curiosity
• Communicate professionally and effectively with families, coworkers, and administration
• Use positive behavior management strategies while maintaining consistent classroom expectations
• Work collaboratively with co-teachers and support staff
• Demonstrate initiative by identifying classroom needs and proactively offering support
• Support children’s cognitive, language, physical, and emotional development
• Maintain compliance with all state licensing, health, and safety requirements

Desired Qualities & Skills

• Energetic, confident, and consistent teaching style
• Strong classroom management and leadership skills
• Creative, engaging, and organized
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Dependable, flexible, and adaptable
• Comfortable in a fast-paced classroom environment
• Passion for early childhood education and kindergarten readiness
• Proactive problem-solver who takes initiative
• Positive team player with a collaborative mindset

Educational Qualifications (Not Required, but Preferred)

All candidates must meet one or more of the following qualifications, in addition to any state and/or local licensing requirements:

• An Associate’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education (Preferred), Elementary Education, Child Development, or a related field
• An Associate’s degree or higher in a related field (Preferred), including 18 semester hours of coursework related to children from birth to age 8
• A current CDA (Child Development Associate) or Early Childhood Teaching Credential
• Proof of current and active enrollment in an accredited Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree program in Early Childhood Education or a related field

Why Join Our Team

• Supportive leadership and collaborative team culture
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• Creative and engaging classroom environments
• Purpose-driven work that makes a lasting impact on children and families
• Opportunity to help children build confidence and prepare for future academic success

Each Goddard School location is privately owned and operated by Goddard Franchisor LLC franchisees. The Goddard School franchise owner(s) are the employers at each school, and the franchise owner(s) set their own wage and benefit programs, which vary by location.