Lead Teacher

Children of America | $18.00–$21.00 per hour

Lead the classroom. Inspire young minds. Grow your career with Children of America!

Are you passionate about early childhood education and ready to make a lasting impact on children's lives? Children of America (COA) is looking for enthusiastic, dedicated, and experienced Lead Teachers to join our growing team!

As a Lead Teacher, you'll take an active role in creating an engaging, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. You'll have the opportunity to lead classroom instruction, implement meaningful learning experiences, and collaborate with a team that shares your passion for early childhood education.

At COA, we believe in investing in our teachers and providing opportunities to grow professionally and advance within our organization.

Why Join Children of America?

• Competitive Pay: $18.00–$21.00 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and location.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities to grow into leadership positions, including Assistant Director and Director roles. We love promoting from within!

• 50% Childcare Discount: Significant savings on childcare for your family.

• Educational Assistance: Access to educational support and T.E.A.C.H. scholarship partnerships.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance.

• Financial Benefits: 401(k) retirement plan.

• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick time, and paid holidays.

• Employee Recognition: Referral bonuses and recognition programs.

About Children of America

Children of America is a nationally accredited preschool with 65+ locations across 18 states, and we're continuing to grow!

We proudly serve children ages 6 weeks to 12 years through our Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, Before & After Care, and Summer Camp programs.

Our culture celebrates individuality, teamwork, and professional development. We believe every educator brings unique strengths and experiences that make our schools stronger.

What You'll Do as a Lead Teacher

As a Lead Teacher, you'll take ownership of your classroom and play an important role in children's daily learning, development, and success.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead daily classroom instruction and implement COA's Mind and Body Matters curriculum.

• Develop and carry out engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans and learning activities.

• Create a safe, nurturing, structured, and positive classroom environment.

• Support children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

• Establish consistent classroom routines and developmentally appropriate expectations.

• Build positive, professional relationships with parents and families.

• Communicate regularly with families regarding children's progress and classroom experiences.

• Observe, document, and share children's developmental milestones using classroom technology.

• Collaborate with fellow teachers and school leadership to ensure quality classroom experiences.

• Respond to children's individual needs with patience, empathy, and understanding.

• Model professionalism, creativity, accountability, and a positive attitude.

What We're Looking For

• High School Diploma or GED with required Early Childhood Education (ECE) credits or a CDA.

• Minimum of one year of experience working in a licensed childcare setting.

• Current CPR and First Aid certification, or ability to meet applicable state requirements.

• Ability to meet all applicable state childcare licensing requirements.

• Strong communication, organizational, and decision-making skills.

• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.

• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic classroom environment.

• A genuine passion for early childhood education and children's development.

• Commitment to professional growth and continuous learning.

Our Mission & Values

At Children of America, our shared values guide everything we do:

• Accountability: Taking ownership, following through, and upholding our mission.

• Collaboration: Working together to achieve the best outcomes for children and families.

• Growth Mindset: Embracing challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.

• Integrity: Making ethical decisions and treating others with respect.

• Consistency: Creating dependable, supportive environments for children and families.

Compensation & Equal Employment Opportunity

Hourly compensation ranges from $18.00–$21.00, depending on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and internal equity. This position may also be eligible for performance-based incentives or additional benefits.

Children of America is committed to fair and transparent hiring practices. This job description reflects the essential functions and expectations of the position and is intended to comply with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including FLSA, EEOC, ADA, and applicable pay transparency requirements.

Children of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

All job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and the submission of the required state documents.