Toddler ECE Teacher at Learning Jungle Gastonia

Landed; Gastonia (NC); On-site; USD 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Learning Jungle in North Carolina seeks an experienced Lead Teacher to guide a developmentally appropriate, play-based program aligned with NC standards. You will design and implement lesson plans, document progress, and build strong partnerships with families to support each child's growth.

Collaborating with teaching assistants and center leadership, you will maintain DCDEE compliance, foster social-emotional development, and participate in ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• Must meet NC Lead Teacher qualifications.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• NC Early Childhood Credential or higher degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
• Background checks and health screenings per DCDEE regulations.
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement lesson plans based on the Creative Curriculum, supporting all domains of development and meeting North Carolina early childhood education program standards.
• Create an inviting, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment that promotes exploration, discovery, and meaningful learning.
• Conduct regular formative and summative assessments to document children’s progress using approved assessment tools.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with children and families to encourage ongoing communication and active family participation in the learning process.
• Collaborate effectively with teaching assistants and center leadership to ensure a consistent and high-quality educational experience for all children.
• Maintain compliance with all North Carolina DCDEE regulations and program requirements.
• Implement strategies that foster social-emotional development, positive behavior, and a respectful, community-oriented classroom culture.
• Participate in all required training sessions, professional development sessions, and team planning meetings.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Commitment to family partnerships

Attention to safety and health

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Post-secondary degree or credential in Early Childhood Education

Nationally accredited credential (CDA/CCP/MACTE/AMS/AMI)

Job description

Ignite Curiosity. Grow Potential.

At Learning Jungle, we believe in the power of early education to transform lives and communities. As a global provider of high-quality educational childcare, we are committed to enriching young minds through play-based learning that is Reggio-inspired and rooted in the Creative Curriculum. Our mission is to inspire children to be creative, mindful, and influential members of the world they live in.

We are currently seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Lead Teacher to join our team and contribute to a high-quality, developmentally appropriate program for young children, in full alignment with North Carolina early childhood education standards. In this role, you will guide a classroom of young learners through intentional, play-based experiences that build a solid foundation for future academic success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement lesson plans based on the Creative Curriculum, supporting all domains of development and meeting North Carolina early childhood education program standards.


• Create an inviting, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment that promotes exploration, discovery, and meaningful learning.


• Conduct regular formative and summative assessments to document children’s progress using approved assessment tools.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with children and families to encourage ongoing communication and active family participation in the learning process.


• Collaborate effectively with teaching assistants and center leadership to ensure a consistent and high-quality educational experience for all children.


• Maintain compliance with all North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) regulations and program requirements.


• Implement strategies that foster social-emotional development, positive behavior, and a respectful, community-oriented classroom culture.


• Participate in all required training sessions, professional development sessions, and team planning meetings.

Qualifications:

• Must meet North Carolina Lead Teacher qualifications, including:
  
  
  
  • A high school diploma or equivalent, and,
  
  
  • One of the following:
    
    
    
    • NC Early Childhood Credential (earned by completion of EDU 111 and 112 or EDU 119), or
    
    
    • A post-secondary two-year degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Human Growth & Development, or Early Childhood Special Education from an accredited institution of higher education, or
    
    
    • A nationally accredited credential certificate such as CDA, CCP, MACTE, AMS, or AMI Montessori.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  
  


• Prior experience teaching young children in a licensed early learning setting is required.


• Strong knowledge of early childhood education principles and practices.


• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong passion for building meaningful family partnerships.


• Must pass all required background checks and health screenings in compliance with DCDEE regulations.


• Current CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.


• Capable of walking, standing, bending, squatting and kneeling for extended periods.


• Able to move quickly to respond to children's needs and to ensure child safety.

Why Join Learning Jungle?

• Supportive, inclusive work culture grounded in early childhood best practices.


• Opportunities for continued education and career advancement.


• Competitive salary and benefits aligned with North Carolina early childhood education standards.


• A meaningful role in shaping the future of young learners and their communities.

Are you ready to lead with purpose and inspire a love of learning?

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the position. Learning Jungle is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Learning Jungle is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the HR Department at [e-mail].